Van der Straeten was a prominent Belgian sculptor of the Belle Époque style, famous for producing delicate busts and ornamental figures of elegant ladies in plaster and bronze.

Van der Straeten was a student of sculptor Jef Lambeaux and exhibited his work at the Salon in Paris from 1885-1912. He won a silver medal at the 1900 Paris World’s Fair. He became Chevalier of the Legion of Honour in 1903. Van der Straeten G. demonstrated great technical mastery and achievements a high quality finish. 

Georges Van der Straeten
(Belgium, 1856-1928)

The Belle Époque style: More of a period than a specific style of design, the European Belle Époque began in the late 19th Century and continued until the outbreak of the First World War in 1914. The period was, in fact, given its name after World War One, as it was felt to be a Golden Age in contrast to the horror of the war. The Belle Époque was emblematic of an optimistic time, when arts, technology, science and cultural innovations were encouraged and flourished. The art and design that emerged from the period is typified by the sense of freedom and pleasure that it evokes.