Portrait d'Ernest Rousseau (Portrait of Ernest Rousseau) (D., Cr., T., E. 11)

Ernest Rousseau was Professor of Physics who later became the Rector of Brussels University. Ensor was introduced to him by Rousseau’s brother-in-law Théo Hannon. The Rousseaus lived at 20, rue Vautier, Brussels, where they entertained literary and artistic friends including Félicien Rops and Eugène Demolder. Ensor became a close friend of the family and a room was always kept for him in the house for his frequent visits to Brussels (see also lots 20, 21, 23, 26 & 27). This fine portrait pays tribute to Rousseau, who - following the death of Frédéric-James Ensor in 1887 – became something of a substitute father for the artist.