That large yellow symbol dominates this wall. It is the mark of a mysterious criminal. He spreads terror in London. We are standing before the Les aventures de Blake & Mortimer Mural. It depicts a scene from the comic book “The Yellow Mark”.
This mural is part of Brussels’ comic book route. It celebrates the 75th anniversary of Blake and Mortimer. The mural’s location has changed a few times. It now resides on Rue du Temple.
The Blake and Mortimer series features Philip Mortimer and Captain Francis Blake. They embark on adventures that blend science fiction and archaeology. They battle good versus evil. The author Edgar P. Jacobs addressed modern issues. These included climate change and drone warfare.
Jacobs was a true master. He single-handedly wrote, illustrated, and colored the comics. His intricate stories captivated readers. The books were hard to put down.
The Comic Book Museum also marked the 75th anniversary. It featured an exhibition on “The Secret of the Swordfish”. This story portrays a nightmarish third world war. It was an instant success. The series has sold over 20 million copies in French alone.
The Blake and Mortimer series broke from tradition. It presented serious subjects to young audiences. One controversial image was a ballerina. Some parents considered it inappropriate. The image was removed but later restored.
Hergé initially found the cover of “The Yellow Mark” too intense. He had the Colonel’s weapon removed. Later editions removed the weapons entirely.
The Les aventures de Blake & Mortimer Mural was created in 2021. It celebrated the 75th anniversary of Blake and Mortimer. Previously, it was located on Rue d’Anderlecht and Rue du Houblon. The mural covers approximately 104 square meters. Oreopoulos G. and Vandegeerde D. created it in May-June 2005.
Edgar P. Jacobs initially pursued a career in opera. He later became a comic artist during World War II. In 1943, he met Hergé. Hergé hired him as a colorist for Tintin stories.
Jacobs launched Blake and Mortimer in 1946. He published ten volumes over 27 years. The series is almost devoid of humor.
The mural shows Blake and Mortimer standing before the infamous yellow mark. This mark caused panic in the streets of London. The Les aventures de Blake & Mortimer Mural is a great photo opportunity. It commemorates a key piece of comic history. The adventures of Blake and Mortimer continue to inspire.