Jan van Eyck was a Flemish painter who lived in the 15th century. He was born in Maaseik, in the modern-day region of Flanders, which is situated in present-day Belgium. Van Eyck is known for his detailed and realistic style of painting, and is considered one of the most important painters of the Northern Renaissance. His works are often characterized by their use of light and color, and his meticulous attention to detail. Van Eyck's most famous work is the Ghent Altarpiece, which is considered a masterpiece of Flemish art.