Female Nude

Emile Baes was born on November 12, 1879, in Brussels, Belgium. He was a versatile artist who made a significant impact on both the art world and literature.

Baes painted with skill and passion, covering a wide range of subjects including historical scenes, portraits, female figures, and characters. He was also proficient as a draftsman and etcher, in addition to being a respected Belgian art critic and writer.

His artistic journey began at the Brussels Academy of Fine Arts, where he studied under the renowned Belgian painter Joseph Stallaert from 1895 to 1901. To further refine his skills, Baes traveled to Paris, where he had the opportunity to learn from French painters Alexander Cabanel and Léon Bonnat. His work was influenced by literary giants such as Paul Flaubert, the enchanting world of symbolism, and the allure of Orientalism.

Although Baes initially started in an academic style, he eventually found his true calling in Impressionism, excelling in painting female figures and nudes with remarkable finesse. He captured the essence of beauty in his works.

Baes exhibited his art at prestigious shows in Paris and Brussels, including the ‘Princesse d’Amour’ gallery Le Roy, where his art was celebrated.

Beyond his paintings, Baes expressed his creative spirit through the written word. He authored notable works such as ‘Les dieux stadiques,’ ‘Princesse d’Amour,’ and ‘Etudes de femmes,’ enriching the art world with thoughtful reflections and stories.

Baes gained iconic recognition for his depictions of femme fatales, portraying enigmatic figures like Salome, Messaline, and Cleopatra with depth and sophistication.

His contributions extended beyond the art world, as he served as a jury member for Miss France in 1936, highlighting his influence in broader cultural circles.

Emile Baes passed away in Paris in 1953, but his work continues to be cherished in private and public collections, including the renowned Brussels Museum of Fine Arts. This reflects the enduring appeal and significance of his art in the realms of both art and culture.