An important figure Belgian sculpture of the 1880s and 1890s, Lambeaux is notable for his fluid modelling—a precursor to the Art Nouveau style that would position Belgium at the centre of the architecture and decorative arts of Europe. He was a member of the 'Weest U Zelve' ('Be Yourself') circle of artists and a co-founder of the Belgian avant-garde artistic society 'Les Vingtistes' ('Les XX'), whose twenty members included James Ensor and Theo van Rhysselberghe. The group exhibited works independent of the official Salon, and invited guest artists from across Europe and America to participate, including Whistler, Sargent and, then lesser-known, artists such as Paul Gauguin. One of Lambeaux's most famous works is that of the Brabo fountain, located in Antwerp; a monument to the founder of the city.
Literature
Janson, H. W.; Nineteenth Centruy Sculpture; London, Thames & Hudson; pp .231–2
Lennep, J.; La SculptureBelge; Belgium, Koninklijke Musea voor Schone Kunsten van Belgie, pp.271–76
Stevens, M. & Hoozee, R. (ed.); Impressionism to Symbolism: The Belgian Avant-Garde 1880-1900; London, RA; pp.24,43, 45, 65, 65, 135, 260.
