The origins of art nouveau and Belgium’s colonial past: A complex intersection

The rise of Art Nouveau in Belgium is inextricable from the concurrent exploitation of Congo, its people and its rich natural resources. Architecture is always rooted in a political, social, and economic context and visitors should know that most Brussels’ most famous Art Nouveau structures were commissioned by individuals whose wealth was built on exploiting…

Exploring Art Nouveau in Brussels: Unveiling Belgium’s Colonial Legacy

In 1893, the visionary architect Victor Horta crafted the iconic Hôtel Tassel, an architectural gem tucked away on a quiet street off Avenue Louise in Brussels. This marked the inception of a new movement, Art Nouveau, renowned for its intricate facades, organic motifs, flowing lines, and lavish interiors adorned with glass and iron. Today, after…