Béni Ferenczy

The recorded working language is Hungarian. The field of work recorded is art of sculpture, graphics and medal-engraving. Employment is recorded with Hungarian University of Fine Arts and Nyugat. Work by Béni Ferenczy is recorded in the collections of Belvedere and Hungarian National Gallery. Distinctions recorded are Kossuth Prize and Righteous Among the Nations.

Béni Ferenczy was born in 1890 in Szentendre, Hungary, the second son of Károly Ferenczy and Olga Fialka, both painters. His sister Noémi was his fraternal twin. All three of the children became artists: Valér was a painter, Béni a sculptor and Noémi a weaver. As a young man, Ferenczy went to Munich and Paris to study art, as did many artists from Hungary since the late nineteenth century. In the latter city, he studied with both Antoine Bourdelle and Archipenko.

Later in his career, Ferenczy also worked in Germany and the Soviet Union, for a time. After his experiences with cubism first and with expressionism later, his art evolved in sculptures with emphasized forms. While a highly talented sculptor he was one of the most accomplished graphic artists in Hungary of the period. He also illustrated many books.

He married Erzsi (Elizabeth) (c.1904-2000) in 1932. She was his close companion, an inspiration for his work and a frequent model of his. Ferenczy died in 1967 in Budapest.

After his death, Erzsi Ferenczy worked to preserve her husband's work and memory. She died in 2000 at the age of 96.

Béni Ferenczy was recorded at birth as Ferenczy Benjámin. The authorities additionally record the headings Benjámin Ferenczy, Beni Ferenczy and Benjamin Ferenczy.

Béni Ferenczy is recorded with the occupation university teacher. Recorded with the occupation graphic artist. Recorded as sculptor, university teacher, painter, medalist and artist.