Early Life, Family and Training Barent van Kalraet, also known as Barent Pietersz Calraat, entered the world on 16 August 1649. He was born in Dordrecht, Netherlands, a place he would remain for the duration of his life. His early years were shaped by the presence of his brother, Abraham Calraet. Within the walls of their home, Barent began to understand the mechanics of the brush and the handling of pigment by watching and learning directly from Abraham. This familial instruction provided the foundation for his technical development. After these early lessons with his brother, Barent van Ka…