Joseph van Severdonck (Belgian, 1819-1905), "Ploughing the Field," 1907
Oil on canvas
28-1/2" x 36", framed 34-7/8" x 42-1/4"
Joseph van Severdonck (1819-1905) was a Belgian painter born in Brussels. He received his artistic training at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp under the guidance of Gustaaf Wappers, a renowned history painter. In 1865, van Severdonck took on the role of a teacher at the Academy of Brussels, specializing in "drawing from antique models." Later, in 1875, he expanded his teaching responsibilities to include the course on "painting from models."
Notable artists who benefited from his guidance include Géo Bernier, James Ensor, Vincent van Gogh, and the English painter Walter Shaw Sparrow.
As a painter, Joseph van Severdonck focused on various genres, including historical scenes, military battles, religious subjects, portraits, and genre paintings. Additionally, he delved into orientalist paintings, aligning with the artistic trends of his time.
Beyond his role as an artist, van Severdonck became the teacher of Queen Maria Hendrika. His works gained recognition in the art world, fetching decent prices at auctions. He participated in numerous exhibitions, earning a gold medal at the Brussels Salon in 1851 and another at the Hague Exhibition in 1859. He also received medals at exhibitions in Cologne, Vienna, and Philadelphia.
Van Severdonck's paintings are featured in prominent museums such as the KMSKB in Brussels (notably "Lancers on exploration"), as well as museums in Tournai, Montreal, and New York. Additionally, his works can be found in various churches in Belgium and the Netherlands, showcasing the breadth of his artistic influence and legacy.
