The bottle of champagne, filled flute glass and ripe strawberries evoke associations with refinement, pleasure and transience. The work probably originated around 1882-1883, when De Braekeleer began to paint again after a long hiatus and started focusing on still lifes. Although it is unclear who originally purchased the painting, it was later collected by Edmond Huybrechts, an influential collector of contemporary art in Antwerp.
An iconic image of heavenly beauty, which is one of the most fascinating depictions of the Madonna in art history. The combination of the intense use of colour and the bold representation makes this work an absolute highlight in the museum’s collection.
A masterpiece full of masks, mystery and social critique. Here, Ensor shows his unique style and keen view of the world – an unmistakable eye-catcher from the KMSKA, which boasts the world’s largest Ensor collection.
A baroque spectacle of colour, movement and emotion. Rubens’ virtuosity leaps from the canvas in this absolute classic, full of dynamism and drama. A monumental tribute to the Flemish masters who reap admiration worldwide. The KMSKA is currently restoring this masterpiece. You can experience the restoration live at Studio Rubens in the KMSKA.
A rare and powerful work by a 17th-century female master. Wautier displays both her technical skills and her sensitivity to character and symbolism in this work. This intimate and powerful double portrait is a hidden gem that deserves to be seen.
A modernist gem by a female Belgian pioneer. Donas combines form, colour and rhythm into a powerful and innovative still life, a perfect match for the fresh perspective of this promotion. You can discover this work by the Antwerp artist in the KMSKA collection. Previously, her oeuvre was highlighted in the successful exhibition ‘Donas, Archipenko & La Section d’Or – Enchanting Modernism’ (4 October 2025 – 11 January 2026).
Jules Schmalzigaug was a master of colour and movement. As a visionary colourist, he is a fixture in the KMSKA’s modern core collection – his work is bursting with energy and light. This futuristic work captures the energy of the modern city and invites a sensory experience.
Rik Wouters is one of the most beloved Belgian artists, known for his vibrant colours and spontaneous touch. His work radiates joie de vivre and intimacy – as a colourist and innovator, he is an indispensable pillar in the KMSKA’s collection. “Autumn” is a tender and colourful ode to the season. Wouters’ expressive brushstrokes and warm colours make this work an intimate and lively scene.
A dramatic and sensual portrait of the legendary Egyptian queen. Cabanel depicts a beautiful and merciless Cleopatra at the moment of her tragic end, in a scene full of emotion and splendour. The painting is a theatrical salon piece that depicts a salient moment in history with academic virtuosity – in a large format, sharply defined, technically refined and with an eye for detail.