DIRK VAN, an eminent painter of architecture and perspective, was born at Heulden, but in what year is not known. He was a disciple of Francis Hals, in whose school he practised to paint those particular subjects which were most esteemed by that master, such as portraits and conversations; and by that means he acquired the skill to design figures with a great deal of spirit and correctness. But his predominant inclination directed him to paint architecture and perspective; and those he studied with so much care, as to make his works admired and coveted through the Low Countries. His subjects were the inside of churches, filled with figures; grand temples; magnificent saloons and galleries, with people assembled at concerts of music, feasting, or dancing. Those subjects he finished highly; his architecture was in a noble taste; and the figures were well designed, as well as grouped with a great deal of judgment. Several authors mention the performances of this master with large commendation, for the goodness of his invention, and neatness of his handling.