Fernand Toussaint

Born in 1873, this Belgian artist was described by Mario de Monchi as "the unrivalled master of feminine grace and charm". His desire to describe and interpret elegance and beauty was always evident in his many portraits and genre scenes. During his early years of art study, Toussaint became a pupil of Jean Portaels, an innovative and demanding teacher who attached prime importance to the art of drawing. Three years later, Toussaint left for Paris, where he completed his studies. Although his name has become synonymous with the study of portraiture and beautiful floral scenes, Toussaint was also very accomplished in other areas of painting, including still life, landscape and topographical subjects, all of which display his excellent knowledge of line, form, colour and composition. Fernand Toussaint died in 1955.