Fernand Khnopff

Biography

Fernand Khnopff was born on September 12, 1858, in Dendermonde, Belgium. He was a prominent Belgian painter, graphic artist, sculptor, and art historian, recognized as a principal representative of Belgian symbolism. Portraiture held a special place in Khnopff's oeuvre. Among his notable works are "I lock my door upon myself," "Incense," and "Portrait of Marie Monnom." Beyond painting, Fernand worked as an ex-librises artist, lithographer, illustrator, draftsman, watercolorist, etcher, and pastelist. He was also active as a photographer and art critic. Fernand Khnopff died on November 12, 1921, in Brussels. His career was closely connected with Belgium's cultural environment and the symbolism movement.