Louis Van Boeckel (1857-1944) (attributed To), Wrought Iron Crocodile, Late 19th Century.

Louis Van Boeckel (1857-1944) (attributed to), Wrought iron crocodile, late 19th century.

Louis (Lodewijk) Van Boeckel (Lier, January 16, 1857 – July 6, 1944) was a Belgian wrought iron artist, sometimes called "Den Boeckel." Due to his thick mustache and athletic build, he was nicknamed "Ambiorix." Born into a difficult childhood—he lost his mother at the age of four—he was largely self-taught. His reputation grew after his participation in the Rubens competition exhibition. Around 1900, he achieved international recognition and received the highest distinction at the Universal Exhibition in Paris. Van Boeckel primarily created decorative wrought iron objects, often adorned with flowers and animals, as well as chandeliers, stair railings, gates, signs, and bas-reliefs. His work is rooted in Romanticism, while later incorporating influences of Art Nouveau. He received important commissions, notably for the balustrades of the National Bank in Athens and the White House, as well as for large cathedral doors in South America (Rosario, Recife, and Buenos Aires). Several of his works are held at the Timmermans-Opsomerhuis Museum and the Lier Town Hall. A bronze bust of him was unveiled in 1994 in the town park.