Landscape in the Ardennes

Asselbergs Alphonse, a native of the city of Brussels, Belgium, was born in 1839. His canvas was the natural world, where he painted breathtaking landscapes and lush forests. His artistic journey was profoundly enriched by his studies under the master teacher and artist Edouard Huberti, a partnership that began in 1863.

Before embarking on his artistic career, Asselbergs led a life filled with worldly travels and trade. However, in 1867, he found himself drawn back to the picturesque Belgian countryside, specifically the Tervuren region. Here, he immersed himself in the art of painting, collaborating with esteemed artists like H. Boulenger, E. Huberti, J. Coosemans, and Th. Baron. Together, they created captivating landscapes that celebrated the beauty of nature.

In 1868, Asselbergs was instrumental in founding the “Société Libre des Beaux-Arts,” a testament to his dedication to the world of art.

One of the most notable chapters in his artistic journey unfolded from 1873 to 1874 when he embarked on a transformative journey to North Africa alongside the watercolorist, Arthur Bouvier. Although this sojourn inspired a series of canvases in the Oriental style, they unfortunately did not find commercial success and remained in his studio at the time of his passing. Undeterred, Asselbergs continued to paint and explore, residing near the artists’ colony in Genk and occasionally venturing into the enchanting forests of Fontainebleau in France.

From 1875 to 1877, he immersed himself in the Barbizon region, collaborating with students of the renowned artist Rousseau. In 1877, Asselbergs made the move to Brussels, where he continued his artistic journey with great fervor. His subjects spanned the picturesque Brussels countryside, the serene Ardennes, and the enchanting Campine regions. In tribute to his artistry, a street now bears his name, where he once had a studio featuring a distinctive round tower.

Throughout the 1880s, Asselbergs showcased his works at the prestigious Salon de Paris, garnering recognition for his talent. In 1881, he received a second commission, and in 1896, he was named an Officer in the Order of Leopold—an illustrious honor in Belgium, named after its esteemed founder, King Leopold I.

His artistic journey concluded in Uccle, Belgium, where he peacefully passed away in 1916. A testament to his enduring legacy, the Groeningemuseum in Bruges proudly displays his captivating oil painting from 1920, titled “La Mare aux Fées” in Fontainebleau.

Today, Asselbergs’ timeless creations grace the halls of esteemed museums in Belgium, including Antwerp, Brussels, Liege, Ixelles, Mons, Tournai, Verviers, and Charleroi, as well as in France. His art continues to captivate and inspire, preserving the beauty of the natural world for generations to come.