A Gentleman and a Maid

Charles Léon Cardon, a Belgian painter born on April 18, 1850, in Brussels, was known for his evocative genre scenes and serene landscapes. Cardon’s artistic journey began in a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage. His work reflects not only his technical prowess but also a deep appreciation for the subtleties of everyday life and the natural world.

Cardon was more than just an artist; he was also a passionate art collector and a skilled designer. His dedication to the arts extended beyond his own creations, influencing the broader art community in Belgium. As a founding member of Optique Belge, Cardon played a crucial role in the promotion and support of visual arts within the country.

One of his significant contributions was the redecoration of the museums of fine art and modern art in the late 19th century. His vision and meticulous attention to detail helped transform these spaces into vibrant centers of artistic expression and cultural preservation.

The artist died in his hometown on September 5, 1920. A bronze bust of the artist is in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, signed by Thomas Vinçotte (Antwerp 1850 – Brussels 1925). This sculpture of Cardon’s head and shoulders was generously donated by the Amis de Charles Léon Cardon in 1926, symbolizing the lasting admiration and respect he garnered from his peers and successors.

Literature:

Allgemeines Künstlerlexikon: Die Bildenden Künstler Aller Zeiten und Völker
Allgemeines Lexikon der Bildenden Künstler: Von der Antike bis zur Gegenwart
Beeldend Benelux: Biografisch Handboek
Allgemeines Lexikon der Bildenden Künstler des XX Jahrhunderts
Biografisch Woordenboek der Belgische Kunstenaars van 1830 tot 1970
De Belgische Beeldende Kunstenaars uit de 19de en 20ste Eeuw
Dictionary of Belgian Painters Born Between 1750 and 1875
Lexicon of the Belgian Romantic Painters
Dictionnaire Critique et Documentaire des Peintres, Sculpteurs, Dessinateurs et Graveurs

Note: Charles Léon Cardon was besides an artist himself, also a fervent art collector and designer. He was a founding member of the Optique Belge and was also responsible for redecorating museums of fine art as well as modern art in the late 20th century.