Isidore De Rudder embodies the transition toward sculptural modernity.

Isidore De Rudder was a prominent Belgian sculptor celebrated for his versatility and innovative approach to both decorative and monumental art. Born into an artistic family in Brussels in 1855, he trained at the Brussels Academy of Fine Arts from 1869 to 1880, later refining his skills under Eugène Simonis. Early achievements included winning the Prix de l’Académie in 1880 and earning second place at the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1882—milestones that enabled him to travel widely throughout Germany, England, and France, broadening his artistic perspective.

Throughout his career, De Rudder embraced a wide range of styles—from realism and romanticism to symbolism, Italianism, and the emerging movements of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. He exhibited at key venues such as the Union des Arts in 1883, the Antwerp World Fair in 1894, and the Brussels Exhibitions of 1883 and 1893. Among his notable early works are Tête d’Enfant, Feue Madame L., and Le Petit Pêcheur.

De Rudder created numerous public monuments, including the Allegory of Tragedy for the Flemish Theatre in Brussels and the statue of Jan van Coudenberghe for the Brussels City Hall. Other major commissions include the Stork and Fish Fountain for the Brussels Botanical Garden and the Recognition of Belgium to France monument at Place de l’Alma in Paris (1923). His artistic practice extended beyond sculpture—he also worked in silver, ivory, ceramics, and jewelry design, collaborating with artists such as Philippe Wolfers and foundries like Wolfers and Luppens.

In addition to his artistic achievements, De Rudder served as a professor at the Brussels Academy from 1911 to 1915 and again from 1919 to 1925. His legacy lives on in public spaces and museum collections throughout Belgium and beyond, marking him as a key figure in the evolution from traditional to modern sculpture in Europe.

Literature :

• BENEZIT, E.Dictionnaire des peintres, sculpteurs, dessinateurs et graveurs. Paris: Librairie Gründ, 1961. Vol.2. p. 1104-1110.