(1879 – 1973)
Joseph François Ghislain Damien, known as Jos Damien, was born on February 22, 1879, in Noville-les-Bois, Belgium. Following in the footsteps of his father, a noted church painter and portraitist, Jos pursued his artistic education in Liège, Antwerp, and Paris. He married Maria Thiery in 1904 and began his career by taking commissions to support his family.
Damien became renowned for his portraits of politicians, generals, and university professors. In 1930, he was appointed court painter for the Belgian and Luxembourg royal families, capturing many royal figures in his works. His career spanned both World Wars, during which he faced significant disruptions but continued to produce art.
Jos Damien passed away on April 21, 1973, in Schaerbeek at the age of 94. His works are displayed in museums like Stadsmus in Hasselt, and his portrait of Queen Astrid is often seen during King Philippe’s Christmas speeches.
