Exploring Bruges Heritage: Major Ingres Portrait Discovery at Musea Brugge and Apotheek Sint-Janshospitaal
Bruges is widely celebrated for its remarkably preserved historic quarters and profound cultural roots. Recently, researchers at Musea Brugge—the municipal museum network that stewards local treasures ranging from the 17th-century hospital pharmacy at Apotheek Sint-Janshospitaal to legendary works of fine art—unlocked a major art historical secret. An anonymous portrait drawn by the famous French master Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres in 1813 has finally been identified.
For decades, the subject of this delicate pencil drawing was a complete mystery. In 1980, art historians tentatively identified the sitter as a local politician named Charles-Bernardin-Ghislain Coppieters-Stochove. However, new collection research has proved this assumption wrong, revealing that the portrait actually depicts the neoclassical Bruges painter and draftsman, Joseph Ducq (1762–1829).
Uncovering the Identity of Joseph Ducq
The key to solving this centuries-old puzzle was found directly within the local Bruges collection. Dr. Thijs Dekeukeleire, an art historian conducting research for Musea Brugge, noticed a striking resemblance between the Ingres drawing and a lithographic print stored in the Bruges Print Room. The print, created around 1829 by Ducq's pupil Adriaan Wulffaert, matches the original drawing so precisely that it was clearly copied from Ingres's work.
This significant finding is part of the ongoing ‘Apprentice-Master II’ research project, which maps the international careers of Bruges artists during the long 19th century. Like many ambitious creators of his generation, Ducq traveled to Paris and Rome to perfect his craft after completing his studies. While in Rome, he integrated into a vibrant community of French and Flemish artists, including Ingres. The portrait was likely created as a farewell gift shortly before Ducq returned to his hometown to serve as the director of the Bruges Academy.
A Deeper Look into Bruges's Artistic Heritage
Although the physical drawing is currently held in a private collection in Toronto, Canada, this discovery highlights the deep, interconnected network of local and international figures who shaped the historical identity of Bruges. It shows how modern historical research continues to bring new depth to the city's heritage.
For travelers visiting the city, this rich past is alive around every corner. Beyond the fine art collections, historic spots like the Apotheek Sint-Janshospitaal offer a rare window into daily life and science in centuries past. This preserved 17th-century hospital pharmacy houses an original interior, medicinal jars, instruments, and unique objects connected with historical healthcare in Bruges.
To support further historical breakthroughs and share these compelling narratives with the public, Musea Brugge is developing its new research centre BRON in the Bruges Museum Quarter, located alongside the future BRUSK art gallery.
If you are planning a cultural getaway to this historic destination, you can easily navigate and curate your itinerary with Musemap (musemap.art), your companion for local cultural discovery. To begin planning your journey through the city's rich heritage, you can browse museums in the area, check out the interactive map view, or see what's on exhibitions during your visit.
