Romanticism in Belgium

After a far too long hibernation, the time has now come to draw attention to a rather neglected period of the Belgian history of art, a period usually described as being that of Romanticism. This exhibition, celebrating Belgium’s 175th anniversary, is focusing on art which developed itself during the reign of Leopold I (1831-1865). A fascinating period thus, during which all kinds of new trends suddenly emerged as seeds shooting up in a conservatory.

This exhibition will not be held in the temporary exhibitions rooms as usual, but in the Museum’s building, lying at the Place Royale, which presently shelters the 19th-century collections. The visitor, after going through the Forum where Gustaf Wappers’ monumental Episode of the September Days 1830 is exhibited in its recently restored frame, will solely be able to gain access to the exhibition rooms through the underground passage leading to the Museum of Modern Art. The circuit begins with a presentation of the figure of Leopold I, as founder of the new dynasty. Thereafter, the exhibition being ideally visited from the third floor downwards, visitors will alternately see some seething scenes of the Revolution and varied historical evocations. On the second floor devoted to landscapes, the visitor will step by step see how the romantic landscape evolved into a fresh and sharply observed outdoor painting. The visitor will also be able to escape to Mediterranean regions and daydream facing colourful exotic fantasies. Further on, typical themes as love, death and even religion, will render the nostalgia of that epoch.

Fine portraits of the upper classes will call to mind the refinement of Romanticism, but social problems will nevertheless not be forgotten. Finally, attention will deservedly be given to the town and town life.

A visit to the second part of the exhibition, at the ING Cultural Center, just across the Place Royale, should not be missed. This section is perfectly linked to the previous part and matches perfectly its thematic structure. Wonderful drawings show the artist’s sensitive and intuitive approach, from hesitating sketches to the most accomplished works of art. These unknown because not displayed treasures hold a dialogue with superb related sculptures.

Finally, every lover of Romanticism will want to view the Antoine Wiertz Museum, which has kept its period atmosphere. A place, unique in Belgium, that lends itself to meditation and where time has seemingly stood still.

The exhibition catalogue begins with a series of interesting essays and contains 263 entries. All the paintings, drawings and sculptures are reproduced in colour and follow the exhibition’s thematic structure. The book ends with a city map of Brussels which proposes an historical stroll from one to another of the city’s most important statue

Pressetext

Romanticism in Belgium
One exhibition, three locations in Brussels
On the occasion of the 175th anniversary of Belgium

Royal Museums of Fine Arts
ING Cultural Centre
Antoine Wiertz Museum

http://www.romantisme.be