The Royal Museums of Art and History are set to unveil their most ambitious initiative in 25 years, inviting the public to explore it without charge. From June 13 to 15, visitors can enjoy complimentary access to two newly launched galleries at the Art & History Museum in Brussels, which will showcase Belgium’s rich legacy in 19th-century decorative arts, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco. As part of the festivities leading up to the public opening, Their Majesties the King and Queen toured the new exhibitions on June 10.
A long-awaited revival of hidden treasures
The introduction of these galleries represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the museum, offering a platform for long-overlooked masterpieces in an innovative setting that emphasizes their artistic and historical importance.
The Art Nouveau and Art Deco gallery, spanning 715 m², serves as a captivating visual experience, immersing guests in the vibrant realm of Belgian modern decorative arts. Art Nouveau, which originated in Brussels in 1893, is celebrated through iconic pieces created by prominent figures such as Victor Horta, Henry van de Velde, and Paul Hankar. A standout feature is the meticulously restored winter garden from the Maison Cousin by Horta, which is being revealed to the public for the very first time.
This dynamic narrative seamlessly transitions into the exploration of Belgian Art Deco, highlighting its stylistic variety and modernist charm.
A cultural celebration
Simultaneously, the 19th-Century Decorative Arts gallery, covering 500 m², takes visitors on a rich journey through prominent 19th-century movements such as Empire, Neo-Gothic, and Japonism. This newly curated space vividly illustrates the essence of bourgeois life during the 1800s, showcasing exquisite furniture, everyday objects, and rare masterpieces, with several significant items generously loaned by the King Baudouin Foundation.
“This three-day opening celebration is more than just a visit — it’s an invitation to rediscover Belgian artistic heritage in one of the country’s most iconic museums.”
Conveniently located in Parc du Cinquantenaire, the museum is easily accessible via public transport. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to delve into the past and appreciate the elegance of Belgian design—admission will be free from June 13 to 15.