As part of the festivities surrounding Belgium’s 175th anniversary, the Royal Museums of Art and History shed light on the evolution of Belgium’s decorative arts. Despite its diminutive geographical size, Belgium has been an extraordinarily active production centre for the decorative arts and enjoyed international fame in that area. The exhibition provides an overview of the decorative arts in Belgium from its foundation in 1830 through to the 1958 World Fair.

An important part of this journey is devoted to the art nouveau, which enjoyed unprecedented success thanks to several prominent designers such as Horta, Van de Velde, Serrurier-Bovy and Wolfers. Also covered are the lesser-known styles such as the revivalist styles and the eclecticism as well as everything from art deco to the modernist trends. The exhibit is a major event for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Brussels, Capital of Art Nouveau: A must for all Art Nouveau aficionados

The art nouveau came into its own in Brussels. The enlightened and progressive bourgeoisie that set the tone in Brussels in the early nineteenth century favoured this architectural style. Victor Horta’s sumptuous creations, which are now protected by UNESCO as world heritage, never fail to thrill visitors.

Brussels’ highlights include: the Horta Museum, the Pavilion of Human Emotions, the Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art and the Museum of Musical Instruments on the Mount of Art.

The exhibit is held at the Royal Museums of Art and History, Parc du Cinquantenaire, 10 in Brussels and is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museums are closed on Mondays, November 1, November 11 and on December 25, 2005. The admission is € 9 for adults Young people aged under 18, senior citizens and groups pay € 7.50