Cock Fight

Henry Schouten, also known as Henri Schouten, was a Belgian painter of animals, landscapes, and still lifes. Born in Indonesia in 1857, Schouten moved to Belgium, where he studied at the Academy of Brussels from 1876 to 1881. He was strongly influenced by the renowned animal painter and master teacher Alfred Verwee (1838–1895).

Throughout his career, Schouten became known for his realistic, balanced compositions, executed with fluent brushstrokes, harmonious colours, and a visible texture. His works often feature animals (cows, sheep, horses, poultry) captured in natural environments and farmyard scenes, alongside farmers, shepherds, hunters with dogs, milkmen with carts, and horse traders. In addition to his animal paintings, Schouten also created still lifes with flowers, fruit, fish, and shrimp, demonstrating his versatility and keen observation of detail.

Schouten exhibited from 1882 onwards with the Union des Arts in Brussels, contributing to his recognition within the Belgian art scene. During his prolific career, he used various pseudonyms, including Joseph Klaas, Jos Klaus, M. Claes, E. Meulat Joors, V. Marinus, J. Remis, and Van Dam, often linked to commissioned works and market distribution.

Henry Schouten’s paintings are celebrated for their warm, lifelike portrayals of rural life, animals, and the landscapes of the Belgian countryside. His works remain highly appreciated by collectors for their charm, realism, and the artist’s ability to capture the essence of the scenes he painted.

Schouten died in Brussels in 1927, leaving behind a legacy of works that continue to embody the spirit of 19th and early 20th-century Belgian realism.