Jan Reynst

Jan Reynst was a wealthy Amsterdam merchant who amassed a large collection of Italian paintings and statues.

Born into a family of Gerard Reynst, a Dutch merchant and governor-general of the Dutch East Indies, Jan was sent to Venice to represent his family business interests. He arrived in Venice in 1625 and became active in salt and grain business developing a vast network of business contacts. Moreover, he also served as representative of the Dutch merchant community in the Veneto and performed diplomatic functions from the States General. In this way Jan was able to amass a substantial personal fortune.

While conducting business in Venice Reynst amassed an impressive collection of Italian paintings and statue which he took back to Amsterdam. After his death, the collection was acquired by the Dutch government and was given to Charles II, the new king of England as a precious diplomatic gift.