The unique drawing 'The Mask Sculptor' by artist Leon Spilliaert has been entrusted to the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR) by the King Baudouin Foundation, the library said in a statement on Thursday.
The piece, which was crafted in 1907, was originally intended to serve as the cover for Belgian writer Fernand Crommelynck’s play, also entitled 'The Mask Sculptor.' According to the KBR, it exhibits an expressionist atmosphere and a dark beauty, characteristic of Spilliaert’s early 'black' period.
However, it failed to please Brussels publisher Edmond Deman and he did not use it for his version of the play, so the KBR has claimed this unique drawing as a testament to Spilliaert’s initial endeavours as a book illustrator.
Interestingly, another sketch by Spilliaert that was also never used for 'The Mask Sculptor,' resides in the Ixelles Museum.
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The recently-acquired drawing is a part of the KBR’s expansive Spilliaert collection, which comprises over 150 of his sketches. It is the largest public compilation of his work.
The public can view this piece upon request, just like the other items in the library’s Print Room collection.
Despite a lack of formal academic training, Spilliaert (1881-1946), the eldest of seven children, managed to carve his own path and develop his unique melancholic style. The KBR hails him as one of the most influential Belgian artists of the early 20th century.
