Balthus Biography

Balthus is the pseudonym of Balthasar Klossowski de Rola, who was born in Paris, the son of Polish aristocrats who were both painters. Self-taught, Balthus began painting early in life. Balthus's oil paintings are charged with a mysterious atmosphere that can also carry erotic overtones. He is best known for his controversial depictions of adolescent girls in languid poses. The presence of these languid, dreamy girls has often given rise to charges of pedophilic overtones; however, the artist's depiction of these girls has also been interpreted as a truthful, evocative portrayal of the awkwardness of adolescence.

View Balthus paintings here.