OTHELLO AND DESDEMONA – SCENE FROM SHAKESPEARE’S “OTHELLO, THE MOOR”

Painter of historical and religious scenes; watercolourist and aquafortist.

Albrecht De Vriendt was principal at the Antwerp Academy of Fine Arts (1891-1900). He was a follower and continuator of Henri Leys. He travelled to Germany and Italy and then visited Egypt and the Holy Land in the company of his brother Juliaan.

His treatment was simple and honest, it just served his toughts and his willingness. His historical erudition was high. When he taught, he professed very broad-minded views. The monumental, decorative feeling was the fundamental quality of this master who was a dogged and methodical worker. He did not try to astonish by using means irrelevant to the nobleness of Beauty. His works rendered a sincere study of nature, expressed dignified thoughts, aroused meditative feelings and were restful to the eye while fostering heart and mind.