Baron James Ensor, his bad angel, hit coat of arms

Welcome, everyone, to the Mu.ZEE - Kunstmuseum aan Zee. Let's take a moment to appreciate "Baron James Ensor, his bad angel, hit coat of arms," painted by the celebrated Belgian artist James Ensor in 1934. nn In this striking self-portrait, Ensor presents himself in a direct and confrontational manner. The painting's small size, a mere 0.16 meters wide and 0.215 meters tall, belies the intensity of Ensor's gaze as he meets the viewer head-on. He fills the canvas, dominating the composition with his upper body. Dressed in a formal dark suit and white shirt, Ensor's attire contrasts sharply with the vibrant blue background and the almost otherworldly pink hue of his face. Adding to this intriguing palette, a mischievous red devil peeks out from behind Ensor's left shoulder, while a coat of arms hovers above his right. nn Ensor's distinctive style is evident in the loose brushstrokes and the almost caricature-like quality of his self-depiction. The bright colors and the dreamlike juxtaposition of the devil, the coat of arms, and the artist himself create a surreal and symbolic atmosphere. Through this self-portrait, Ensor seems to be exploring themes of duality, temptation, and perhaps even mocking the conventions of traditional portraiture. nn This painting offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of Belgium's most important artists. Ensor's unique vision and his willingness to challenge artistic norms continue to resonate with audiences today, making this work a highlight of the Mu.ZEE collection.