Gipsmodel, voorstellende kraters op het oppervlak van de Maan before 1877

This plaster model of the moon's surface was made by James Nasmyth in the 19th century. Rather than relying solely on astronomical observation, Nasmyth chose to physically model the lunar landscape using plaster, a common material in both artistic and industrial contexts. Plaster's ability to capture fine detail made it perfect for rendering the intricate textures and formations of the moon's craters. Nasmyth carefully shaped the plaster, building up layers to mimic the mountainous regions and carving out the circular depressions of the craters. By using plaster, Nasmyth was able to translate the abstract data of astronomical observation into a tangible and visually accessible form. The choice of plaster also speaks to the broader social context of the time, when industrial materials were increasingly being adopted by artists and designers. Ultimately, Nasmyth challenged the traditional hierarchy between science and art, and offered a tactile encounter with a celestial body that would otherwise remain distant.