Master founder devoted to the beauty of detail.

Jean-Baptiste Sloodts was a Belgian sculptor and modeller, born in Brussels in 1843. He spent his entire career at La Compagnie des Bronzes de Bruxelles, one of the most prestigious art foundries in Europe. Starting as a second-class craftsman in 1893, he was promoted in 1896 after receiving the décoration ouvrière for the excellence of his work, and in 1907 he attained the rare distinction of first-class founder. This elevated status enabled him to both cast and sign his own works—an exceptional privilege at the time.

Sloodts worked closely with fellow sculptor Joseph Moreau, producing decorative elements such as laurel wreaths, chandelier crowns, and floral ornaments. By the end of the century, he began receiving commissions for vases, bowls, and ornamental objects in what was then referred to as the nouvelle esthétique or style moderne—precursors to what would soon be known as Art Nouveau. These pieces often featured exquisitely modelled flowers, birds, and female figures, cast with great precision using the lost-wax technique.

Sloodts also created copper and silver mounts for the renowned glassmakers Daum and Gallé, underscoring his dual identity as both artisan and artist. His style was characterised by exceptional attention to detail, visual balance, and refined surface finish. The patinas he applied—often in nuanced shades of brown—further enhanced the depth and tactile quality of the bronze.

Very few works signed by Sloodts have survived, and those that have are highly prized for their rarity, refinement, and superb craftsmanship. His contribution was later acknowledged by the director of La Compagnie des Bronzes during the 1950s and 1960s.

Jean-Baptiste Sloodts remains a significant figure in the history of Belgian decorative sculpture, standing at the crossroads between artisanal excellence and the birth of modern aesthetics.

Literature :

• ENGELEN, C. MARX, M. La Sculpture en Belgique à partir de 1830,Tome VI. Engelen – Marx, Louvain, 2006. p. 3234-3237.