Few artists of the late nineteenth century produced an oeuvre which is more bizarre, ironic, profound, and rich in interpretive possibilities than that of the Belgian painter James Ensor (1860-1949). His unusual motifs, which became unmistakable symbols of the absurdity of existence, influenced both German Expressionists and French Surrealists. Especially when seen in the light of new trends like the manifestation of the grotesque and comic in contemporary painting, Ensor's work obtains new currency. With almost eighty masterpieces on canvas and about 110 works on paper from international museums and private collections, the publication presents key works from each of his creative periods. Particular attention is paid to Ensor's late work, long neglected by scholarship, in order to prepare the ground for a reevaluation. (German edition ISBN 978-3-7757-1702-1) Exhibition schedule: Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, December 17, 2005-March 19, 2006