Man with a Book

Laudy Jean, born on May 4, 1877, in Venlo, was a Dutch-Belgian painter and the court painter to the Belgian Royal Family. His artistic journey began in his Venlo home, where his father’s encouragement and the provision of a studio fueled his passion, especially after scarlet fever left him blind in one eye. Studying in Antwerp and Brussels, Laudy refined his style, drawing inspiration from Dutch artists.

In 1905, after marrying fellow student Hélène Demoulin, Laudy settled in Brussels. Engaging in the artistic community, he joined the “L’Effort” studio and the “Le Sillon” artists’ association, forming enduring friendships with Arthur Navez and Alfred Bastien. Regular attendance at “La Patte de Dindon” discussions enriched his creative journey.

Exhibiting at esteemed venues such as the “Cercle des Beaux-Arts” and the “Salon de La Libre Esthétique,” Laudy showcased an evolving style that transitioned from impressionism to realism. His subjects spanned human figures, still lifes, nudes, interiors, portraits, and vibrant floral compositions, with a particular fondness for roses.

Laudy’s artistic prowess earned him acclaim, culminating in a gold medal at the 1910 World Exhibition in Brussels. Renowned as a portraitist, he adeptly adapted his style to capture the essence of each subject, leading to his official appointment as court painter to the Belgian Royal Family. In 1921, he obtained Belgian citizenship and later became a member of the Royal Academy of Belgium.

Despite his fame, Laudy held only four solo exhibitions, one of which took place in 1937 in his hometown, Venlo. Residing in Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe, he counted Queen Elisabeth of Belgium among his notable visitors.

Laudy’s artistic legacy extended to his son, Jacques Laudy, a painter and cartoonist for Tintin magazine. Streets in Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe and Venlo bear his name, and his works adorn museums such as the SteM in Sint-Niklaas and the Charlier Museum in Sint-Joost-ten-Node.

Jean Laudy passed away on February 6, 1956, in Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe, leaving behind a rich artistic heritage.