Object of the Day: “Hôtel de Ville” by Robert J. Inness

Some of you asked me about this painting after my article about “picture lights.” This large work depicts the Hôtel de Ville (or, in Dutch, “Staidhuis”) in Brussels, Belgium. Robert J. Inness is a contemporary painter, living in Dallas, known for his lush landscapes and cityscapes. I have collected four of his paintings, and have had the honor of meeting him.


Inness’ work is characterized by loose brushstrokes and a bold use of color. He is particularly adept at using dramatic skies as soaring backgrounds for the buildings and scenes that he paints. His ability to replicate the most minute architectural details by manipulating his brushstrokes is particularly remarkable. Throughout a lifetime of world traveling, Inness has had the chance to sketch and paint the most beautiful vistas on the earth. His eye translates these images into magnificently fluid scenes of palpable energy.

The Hôtel de Ville hangs in my living room, directly across from another of his works—a painting of the Esplanade at Versailles. They book-end the room with their lush colors and unexpected feeling of life.

The work of Robert J. Inness can be found in Dallas at the Forestwood Antique Mall in the booth operated by his wife, Yvette. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.