Brief Biography-Jan Dirksz Both was from Utrecht Holland. His speciality was Italianate landscape painting. His older brother Andries was a successful artist who, along with Jan, studied under Abraham Bloemaert. The two brothers went to Rome, where Jan came under the influence of Claude Lorrain,and Andries specialised more in genre scenes. They became members of the Bentvueghels in Rome. Jan worked with Lorrain on a commission for the Buen Retiro Palace in Madrid. His colouring obtained him the distinction of being called Both of Italy. Andries died in Venice, and Jan returned to Utrecht, where he spent the rest of his life. 
In an account by the Rev. M. Pilkington, Vicar of Donabate and Portrane, in the Diocese of Dublin 1701-1784. Jan drowned in Venice, and Andries returned to Utrecht. He states the first account was by Sandrart and the latter by other historians.