Belgian born, Franz de Merlier came to Pennsylvania in the early 20th century, and his works were featured in the exhibit held by the Brandywine Museum called "A Summer Idyll; Landscapes from the Brandywine Valley." Photographs, postcards and memorabilia from the region were included in the exhibition to further demonstrate the historic popularity of the Brandywine Valley as a place of ideal beauty and recreation. The exhibition's paintings depicted the landscape in many artistic styles. From the emphasis on color and pattern in Horace Pippin's wonderful view of Birmingham Meeting House to the broad brush work and scumbled textures of Franz de Merlier's landscapes, the exhibition provided a fascinating range of interpretations of summer along the Brandywine. These works suggest both the idyllic warm days and idleness of the season.  De Merlier was also commissioned to do mural work in the region.