Vittorio Pica in Belgium Between the Pages of L’Art Moderne and of La Jeune Belgique (1855-1913)
abstract
Significant studies have demonstrated the links between Vittorio Pica and the international intellectual circles, French in particular. It was therefore deemed of particular interest to deepen his relations with Belgium. This article notably investigates how his writings were transposed and published in two journals, L’Art Moderne and La Jeune Belgique, between 1885 and 1913. These two cases appear meaningful as these periodicals represent the medium of the most progressive exponents of the Belgian cultural world of his time. By examining these journals, it was found that Vittorio Pica’s production is at that time monitored for the completeness and the foresight of his analysis, considered to be free of prejudice. He is also seen as a courageous critic who takes sides in favor of new trends, even against public opinion. His function of tireless mediator between the international culture and Italy is widely recognized and his multifaceted personality is much appreciated. His work, largely documented, therefore becomes a reference for a generation of Belgian intellectuals that share the same exploration of modernity.
Keywords: Belgium • Vittorio Pica • Cultural exchanges • L’Art Moderne • La Jeune Belgique