Was Albert I truly a king-knight? Here, before the Albert Bust, let’s delve into the story of a monarch remembered for his bravery and dedication.
The Albert Bust commemorates King Albert I. He was the third King of the Belgians. The bust reminds us of his significant role in Belgian history.
Albert I’s accidental death in 1934 deeply moved Belgium. Many cities wanted to honor him. Brussels debated how to best pay tribute. Should it be a monument, architecture, or urban development? Ultimately, sculpture won.
The Albert Bust we see today is part of a bigger project. It includes the Mont des Arts and the Royal Library of Belgium. This library is also dedicated to Albert I. In French and Dutch, it’s nicknamed Albertine or Albertina. Interestingly, the library’s first stone was laid three years after the Albert Bust was inaugurated.
The equestrian statue of Albert I was created by sculptor Alfred Courtens in 1951. Courtens began the project with a small model in 1943. It was revised and approved in 1946. World War II delayed construction due to material shortages.
Finally, in 1951, the bronze sculpture arrived in three parts. This made transport easier. The body of the horse, its head, and the king’s effigy were assembled on site. Jules Ghobert designed the pedestal. He was also an architect of the Royal Library.
The Albert Bust portrays Albert I as a soldier king. He wears a military coat and holds a helmet. Courtens chose to depict him bareheaded. He feared a helmet’s shadow would obscure the king’s face.
During World War I, Albert I made a crucial decision. On October 11, 1914, he decided not to retreat the army to France. Instead, he gathered them behind the Yser. This led to trench warfare.
While the government was in exile, King Albert I stayed with his soldiers. He remained near the trenches throughout the war. He effectively commanded the Belgian armed forces. He also influenced important decisions. He refused to let his army participate in Allied attacks. Fewer Belgian soldiers died compared to other countries’ armies.
Across the street stands a statue of Queen Elisabeth. She actively cared for wounded soldiers during World War I. Belgian soldiers called her the “queen nurse”.
The Albert Bust is oriented towards the center of Brussels. The king surveys the city. This statue isn’t just a sculpture. It’s a symbol of courage, leadership, and a king’s unwavering commitment to his people.