Louis Van Cutsem

Belgian sculptor Louis Van Cutsem was an active resistance fighter against the Nazi dictatorship during World War II and granted shelter to Jewish families. In 1974, he was awarded the honorary title of “Righteous Among the Nations” by the state of Israel. As a sculptor, he devoted himself to designing sports sculptures, including Belgian great cyclist Eddy Merckx, but also several boxers, including former European Champion Pierre Charles, fencers, rowers, archers and basketball payers. An avid footballer and cyclist himself, Van Cutsem became one of the most popular and important sports sculptors in Belgium, but he also created figures for neighbours and friends. His favorite materials were stone, plaster and bronze.

Van Cutsem studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Saint-Josse and Bruxelles after finishing his education as a stonecutter with his father. His wife remained in his studio after his death until she died in 2004. The studio was later resurrected in Schaerbeeck by heritage specialist Philippe Debroe, who organized a permanent exhibition starting in 2012.

The plaster relief Motorrijder is one likely candidate for the work Motorcyclist. The diameter is 18.5 cm with a thickness of 4 cm, possibly the design for a medal. The date of production is unknown. There are also reliefs, plaques and medals with cycling motifs, but none titled Tour de France could be identified.