Description

The paintings of Balthus, one of the most enigmatic and poetic figures in 20th century art, long remained a mystery - just like Balthus himself who persistently fended off all intrusions into his private life. In the late 70s, the aging master finally settled down in the Grand Chalet, a splendid and spacious 18th century timber house in a remote Swiss mountain area. Both house and occupants remained strictly "off limits" to media and public alike, until 1993 when the ban was graciously lifted for Japanese photographer Kishin Shinoyama. Not only was he allowed to photograph the Grand Chalet, its rooms and the family life there, but he was admitted to the inner sanctum, Balthus' studio, located in a roomy atelier outside. The present selection offers a unique glimpse into the world of an artist whose paintings, personality, lifestyle, and career add up to no less than a 20th century complete art work.