Bernard van Orley: A Flemish Renaissance Master Bernard van Orley (between 1487 and 1491 – January 6, 1541), also known as Barend or Barent van Orley, Bernaert van Orley or Barend van Brussel, was a remarkably versatile Flemish artist who stands as a pivotal figure in the artistic landscape of the Dutch and Flemish Renaissance. Born in Brussels, Belgium—likely amidst a family steeped in tapestry design—van Orley’s formative years were marked by exposure to the craftmanship of his father, Valentin van Orley, establishing him firmly within the influential milieu of Bruges and Antwerp. While he…