Leon Frederic

Léon Frédéric (August 26, 1856 – January 27, 1940) was a Belgian Symbolism painter. His earlier paintings joined Christian mysticism, pantheistic, and natural themes, while his later works increasingly reflected social themes.[1][2]

Frédéric's work reflects influences of fifteenth and sixteenth century Flemish, as well as Renaissance painting styles.

Two of his works, The Four Seasons and The Source of Life are currently on display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.[3]

Biography

Frédéric attended Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels from 1871 to 1878, and was a pupil of the Neo-Classicist Jean-François Portaels. While attending the academy Frédéric made long trips to Italy from 1876 to 1878 to study with the Belgian sculptor Julien Dillens. While in Italy (Venice, Florence Naples and Rome) he studied the works of Botticelli and Ghirlandaio, reinforcing his linear technique. In 1879, on his return from Italy, he made his debut at the Brussels Salon and became a member of the artist group L'Essor (artist group). In 1883, he moved to Nafraiture, in the Belgian Ardennes, and traveled extensively to England, Germany and the Netherlands. He moved to his final home in Schaerbeek in 1899, and continue to travel and exhibit his work in international fairs.[2][4][5]

Honors

Despite achieving recognition in Germany and the United States, as well as winning several gold and bronze medals for his work, Frédéric did not receive official approval in his native country until later in his life.[6]

He was awarded gold medals for painting at the Exposition Universelle of 1889 and 1900.
Between 1889 and 1900, Frédéric was awarded gold and bronze medals in the United States.
In 1904, he was appointed member of the Royal Academy of Belgium.[2]
In 1891, he was awarded a gold medal in Berlin.
In 1929 Frédéric was created a Baron and Knight of the order of King Leopold.

References

"Les âges de l'ouvrier [The Ages of the Worker]". Home. Retrieved 2015-09-01.
"Dictionnaire des Peintres belges: 2382 FRÉDÉRIC, Léon". balat.kikirpa.be.
"The Four Seasons: Fall". Philadelphia Museum of Art. Retrieved 2015-09-01.
"Léon FRÉDÉRIC". Whitford Fine Art. Retrieved 2015-09-01.
Universalis, Encyclopædia. "LÉON FRÉDÉRIC".
"Lot 201: Léon-Henri-Marie Frédéric (Belgian, 1856-1940)". Christie's. Retrieved 2015-09-01.