1875 – Brussels – 1943
Belgian Painter
Lady in Thoughts
Jules Lentrein was a talented Belgian painter, watercolourist, and lithographer born in Brussels in 1875, where he also passed away in 1943. Renowned for his marine paintings, city views, and country landscapes, Lentrein also explored portraiture and church interiors throughout his artistic career.
Lentrein honed his skills at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels, where he studied painting, watercolour, and lithography. His work often reflected a deep appreciation for both urban and natural settings, capturing the serene beauty of the sea, the vibrant energy of cityscapes, and the tranquil charm of rural landscapes. He occasionally delved into more intimate subjects, such as portraits, one of which—a depiction of an elegant woman adorned with sumptuous jewelry—garnered particular attention. This portrait, painted in the 1920s and later owned by Jean-Noel Cabanettes, was identified in 2011 by the Art Deco Society of California as that of Princess Irina Alexandrovna of Russia.
In addition to his individual pieces, Lentrein’s lithographic work was well-regarded, with notable participation in the ‘Exposition de la Lithographie Belge Contemporaine’ at the Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels in 1931. His lithographs were also published in the albums of the Kring L’Effort in 1918, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the craft.
Lentrein’s dedication to the arts was further evidenced by his participation in the preparatory competition for the Prix de Rome in 1898, a testament to his early promise and ambition. He remains a respected figure in the Belgian art scene, confirming his lasting impact and contribution to the artistic heritage of Belgium.
This captivating portrait of a lady in half profile, seated in a chair, lost in thought and dreams, is a masterful work by Jules Lentrein. The subject is elegantly dressed in a clothing inspired by a Japanese kimono, lending an air of exotic grace and sophistication. Lentrein intended this piece as a heartfelt gift to his friend, the renowned Belgian Impressionist and Fauvist painter Auguste Oleffe (1867–1931). It is believed to be a portrait of Oleffe's wife, offered as a thoughtful gesture of friendship and admiration. The work is beautifully signed at the bottom right in French: ‘A l'ami Aug. Oleffe, J Lentrein,’ marking it as a cherished memento of their camaraderie.
