Félicien Rops at the Kunsthaus, Zürich

The Kunsthaus Zürich, in close collaboration with the KBR (the Royal Library of Belgium), is dedicating an exhibition to Félicien Rops, a leading figure in 19th century Belgian art. Through a selection of his emblematic works, the exhibition highlights the artist’s graphic virtuosity, his intellectual preoccupations and his critical take on society of his time.

Two works from the King Baudouin Foundation’s collection

Among the works on show are La Dame au Pantin II (Lady with a Puppet II) and La Sphinge (The Sphynx), two paintings from the King Baudouin Foundation’s collection. Unlike the rather more explicit scenes of brothels and cabarets, these two compositions explore the female body from an allegorical and Symbolist perspective.

Acquired in 2023 by the Charles Vreeken Fund, La Dame au Pantin II represents a seductive woman manipulating a man, like a marionette. This version, perfectly in line with the exhibition’s title, Laboratory of Lust, is shown in dialogue with related drawings and engravings, some of which are more violent expressions of the theme.

La Sphinge on the other hand, is presented alongside the original printing plate used for the etching and heliogravure (1884), kept at the Royal Library of Belgium. The King Baudouin Foundation acquired this drawing in 2016.

Practical information:
Félicien Rops. Laboratory of Lust
Kunsthaus Zürich
Heimplatz
8001 Zürich
Until 31 May, 2026
Tuesday to Sunday: 10h – 18h
Thursdays: 10h – 20h