Ernest Dezentjé, born in Jatinegara, Jakarta in 1885, is frequently linked to the early development of the “Indonesian School” of painting. A largely self-taught artist of mixed heritage, he began his artistic journey at the relatively late age of 31. He was actively involved with the Bataviasche Kunstkring, participating in their exhibitions, and held solo shows in Jakarta in 1936, 1937, 1938, and 1939. Following World War II, he became a citizen of Indonesia.

Dezentjé is best remembered for his landscape paintings. While he primarily created work within Indonesia, he also painted scenes from Sumatra and Batavia.