Flemish Masters

Between the 15th and 17th centuries, Flanders was at the artistic forefront of Western Europe. Our region inspired the main movements of that time: the Flemish Primitives, the Renaissance and the Baroque. That was the accomplishment of the Flemish Masters, whose craftsmanship, creativity and drive for innovation turned Flanders into an art region that achieved fame world-wide. Since then, generations of artists have continued to build on this rich heritage. Where better to discover that than here? Meet the Flemish Masters.

Did you know that many women artists stood in the shadow of their male colleagues for centuries? Their work was innovative and influential, but remained less visible because they often did not have access to studios or influential networks, or because their work was sometimes attributed to male colleagues, family members or spouses. In other cases, women did not sign their works or signed them using a male name. Today, we tell their stories in our museums and exhibitions, giving them the recognition they deserve for their artistic achievements and their international impact.