Balthus

French, 1908-2001. Born Balthazar Kossowski to artist parents, it was inevitable that Balthus would become an artist as well. He produced landscapes, portraits, and stage sets in a traditional, formal style when avant-garde was the fashion. By the 1930s, Balthus was still considered traditional in style but his imagery was highly controversial as he depicted young girls in provacative positions. Despite the controversy, Balthus was a highly regarded and successful artist but he eventually became a recluse with his wife in Switzerland in the latter half of his career.