Alkmaar

Alkmaar , city (1994 pop. 92,962), North Holland prov., NW Netherlands. It is an important market town with varied industries. Alkmaar also attracts tourists, especially because of the famous Edam-cheese market, held weekly in front of the 16th-century weighhouse. Alkmaar was chartered in 1254. Its successful defense (1573) against Spanish troops was a turning point in the revolt of the Netherlands.

Master of Alkmaar (active early 16th century). Netherlandish painter named after the altarpiece of the Seven Works of Mercy painted for the church of St Lawrence in Alkmaar in 1504 and now in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. The painter has been plausibly identified with Cornelis Buys (active 1490–1524), who was the brother of Jacob Cornelisz. van Oostsanen. The figure style is reminiscent of Geertgen tot Sint Jans and the altarpiece is important as an early instance of the characteristically Dutch delight in the representation of everyday life.

Master of Alkmaar (active early 16th century). Netherlandish painter named after the altarpiece of the Seven Works of Mercy painted for the church of St Lawrence in Alkmaar in 1504 and now in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. The painter has been plausibly identified with Cornelis Buys, who was the brother of Jacob Cornelisz. van Oostsanen. The figure style is reminiscent of Geertgen tot Sint Jans and the altarpiece is important as an early instance of the characteristically Dutch delight in the representation of everyday life.