Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Created on site for the American Pavilion, this more than 70-metre-long frieze is a giant collage inspired by the “American way of life,” in which Steinberg gives free rein to his inventiveness. Comprising eight series of thematic panels, The Americans is today considered a pinnacle in the artist’s oeuvre.

Upon the closure of Expo 58, the entire ensemble was acquired by the Belgian State and incorporated into the collections of the RMFAB. Due to its imposing size and fragility, this major work is rarely shown to the public, even though it was originally designed for an open space meant to welcome thousands of visitors. At the time, it formed the luxurious backdrop for the daily fashion shows organised by Vogue at the heart of the pavilion.

In the spring of 2025, a first selection of The Americans was presented and even exceptionally used as a backdrop during a press presentation by Maison Delvaux at Paris Fashion Week. Now, a second selection of panels from Steinberg’s work is on view on level +1, in the temporary exhibition room.

A Diamond member of the Corporate Club, Maison Delvaux has partnered with the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, making possible the preservation and renewed appreciation of these remarkable panels in all their splendour.