Purely by chance an unknown etching by Ostend master James Ensor, dating from the end of the 19th century, has been surfaced in Brussels. The work had been collecting dust in an attic at Koekelberg city hall. A second work by Brussels painter Constantin Meunier was also found.
Koekelberg discovers neglected James Ensor etching collecting dust in its attic
Colin Clapson
Published:
Fatmir Limani, the borough’s city cabinet member for Francophone culture, discovered the two works when he was clearing up the attic at city hall.
The etching by the Ostend maser James Ensor is "Starry Sky over the Cemetery" from 1888. Although Ensor is best known for his paintings depicting masks, skeletons and carnival, he also made many fine etchings.
Still, alderman Fatmir Limani isn’t too impressed: "It is not a great work by the famous Ostend painter. Ensor himself admitted that he did not fully master the technique of engraving, but it is definitely an Ensor, the etching is signed and there is a stamp on the back."
After years of neglect in Koekelberg city hall the work will be restored and displayed.