The turn of the century marks one of the most important epochs, the golden age of Budapest. After the revolution and the war of independence (1848-49), which were followed almost twenty years later by the period of national resistance, the city reached the crowning point in its development in about 1900. Budapest, the capital of Hungary, evolved from the old towns of Óbuda (Old-Buda), Buda and Pest, six years after the Austro-Hungarian agreement and the establishment of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the last quarter of the 19th century, the city grew to a surprising degree. During this period, its population tripled, rising from 280,000 to 933,000, whilst the number of its buildings almost doubled. These constructions were planned and supervised by the capital’s Council for Public Works, the central organisation responsible for city planning. They turned Budapest into a metropolis in the truest sense of the word.
The architecture of the façade, inspired by the Glasgow School, combines symmetry, verticality and perfect geometry. In this respect, it differs from Victor Horta’s Art Nouveau vegetal line. As Paul Cauchie was one of the most prolific sgraffiti artists of his time, it’s only natural that he wanted to present an exceptional decoration on the facade and inside of his house to attract potential customers. The sgraffiti on the façade and inside the bel-étage are unique. In particular, the façade is adorned with one of Europe’s largest sgraffiti, and the front room of the bel étage is entirely decorated with it. But other techniques are also used, such as fresco, stained-glass, joinery (stair railings, openwork panelling, interior and exterior frames) and wallpaper.
The former kitchen-cellars have been converted into a gallery to display the works and archives of Paul and Lina, also talented artists.
Destined for demolition in the 1970s, the house was saved by a passionate couple who undertook an exemplary restoration project. In 1987, the sgraffiti on the belétage, hidden behind wallpaper since 1954, were brought back to life. In 1989, anasbl was created to provide a framework for the initiatives the owners wished to develop: tours, exhibitions and publications on Art Nouveau, Cauchie and sgraffiti. Since then, Maison Cauchie has continued to welcome numerous visitors and share its message of love and beauty.
Réseau Art Nouveau Network,
Bruxelles Urbanisme et Patrimoine
Mont des Arts 10-13, 1000 Bruxelles.
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