Belgian Art Nouveau

Belgian Art Nouveau, which emerged in the late 19th century, was an exuberant, whiplashing burst of creativity. And it wasn't just a look - it was a whole new attitude to the historicism and fustiness of the past. It was a wonderful repository of inspiration drawn from nature, new technologies and the exotic allure of the Far East, resulting in a world of undulating lines, naturalistic forms and a spark of celebration.

Architecture was the backbone of this culture. Architect Victor Horta (1861-1947) transformed townhouses and apartments into sculptures that came to life. His signature swirlin...