Henricus Joannes Melis ( 1845 - 1923 ) was a leading Dutch painter, whose artistic influence and style were deeply rooted in the traditions of the Hague School. Born in the picturesque Sas van Gent, Melis developed a passion for art at an early age, which led to formal training at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rotterdam.
During his long and fruitful career, from 1860 until his death in 1923, Melis manifested himself as a versatile artist. He was skilled in several disciplines, including watercolor, illustration, drawing, and painting. His works, which often include Dutch cityscapes, winter landscapes, interiors, allegories, maritime scenes, genre scenes, and figure representations, reflect the realistic and often soberly colored style characteristic of the Hague School.