Just after, we find a small painting measuring 48 x 41 cm dating from 1618 and showing the famous scene of Libra. The web is anonymous. We expect €1,500 to €2,000. It is a work of average quality but rare in iconography, because it is this scene where Protestants put Catholics to the test with the weight of holy scriptures. The mention of Calvin is obvious. Opposite, on overly plush cushions which undoubtedly mock the luxury of the Counter-Reformation, we see a single book, certainly the New Testament. The latter does not weigh very heavy.
An expensive “potato harvest”
At the International Museum of the Reformation in Geneva (MIR), we find documents relating to this episode. Once upon a time, our Christian ancestors loved each other as much as the Sunnis and Shiites. There were, however, more open people, like in Olne (Dalhem County and therefore in the Southern Netherlands), where, in the 17th century, the place of worship was shared between the two religions, that of Rome and the RPR ( supposedly reformed religion). An engraving by Michel Natalis, from Liège, however, is proof, if we can put it that way, of this cordial understanding, to which Gaëlle de Lannoy, a specialist in this fascinating but forgotten artist, could testify.
But let’s return to our paintings and sculptures to stop on one Landscape in Astenepainted by Emile Claus in 1889. The painting is priced between €20,000 and €26,000. Another canvas will follow, even more important in size and price, painted by Van Rysselberghe, signed, dated and located in Knokke in 1883. It is The Potato Harvest. The painting is valued between €50,000 and €70,000. This will be followed by a major painting by Laermans and a large canvas from 1905 showing a Garden in Knokkepainted by Anna Boch and worthy of Recogne.
Speaking of our Ardennes, don’t hesitate to go to Redu, to the Mudia Museum of Paintings and Sculptures, it’s important. Laermans and Anna Boch are there, like Spilliaert and many others.
- Or ? Chez De Vuyst, Kerkstraat, 46, 9160 Lokeren. www.de-vuyst.com. www.mudia.be. When ? Saturday October 19. Exhibition from October 9 to October 16. The day will be divided into three shifts set at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
