Belgium/Hidden treasures in Brussels: art deco where you least expect it

This weekend's Heritage Days offered a wealth of discoveries. And in Brussels, art deco was in the spotlight this year. Art deco can sometimes be found where you least expect it, and even in the most surprising places. Not least... in cemeteries.

At Laeken Cemetery, all you need to do is take a look at some of the tombstones... and be accompanied by a connoisseur.

Tom Verhofstadt, art historian and president of the ASBL Epitaaf, points out the art-deco features on the graves: "There's this geometric and above all very symmetrical aspect, which dominates the monument, from the foot to the back. There's an architectural aspect that dominates," he explains, pointing to one grave.

Art Deco has left its mark on history, even in cemeteries

A simple, modest style, ornamental roses, sometimes bronze sculptures. Funerary art deco, though discreet, has left its mark on history.

"It's really the latest style to be ubiquitous in funerary art," reveals Tom Verhofstadt. "We can see that there's still a desire to do artistic work. Once you get into the 40s and 50s, it's going to disappear completely."

The Royal Salon at Central Station

A change of location, a change of atmosphere: the Central Station. Behind a rather banal door hides an Art Deco nugget, usually closed to the public. Welcome to the Salon Royal, once used by King Baudouin.

"There was a dual function to this room," reveals the historian. "It was used both as a waiting room for the king when he took the train, and as a reception room when foreign heads of state visited Belgium by train."

In fact, art deco can be found everywhere and in many different disciplines, from fashion and furniture to craftsmanship and know-how.

A visit that appeals to those who come to take advantage of the Heritage Days. This year, they are dedicated to the discovery of art deco, which is much more widespread than you might think: "Art deco can be found everywhere and in many different disciplines, from fashion and furniture to craftsmanship and know-how," explains David Serati, coordinator of the Heritage Days. "And that's what's really interesting. You can recognize it in a lot of things, in fact, that you see, even if you don't necessarily pay attention."

So keep your eyes peeled, because little bits of art history are sometimes hidden in the most unsuspected places.

Source: www.rtbf.be/