Amalie Brock, f. Bjerring 1856

Here we see a marble bust, just under 60cm tall, depicting Amalie Brock. It was sculpted by H.W. Bissen, a prominent 19th-century Danish artist known for his neoclassical style. Marble, of course, is a metamorphic rock, prized for its ability to be carved into intricate forms and its smooth, luminous surface. Bissen would have roughed out the form with chisels, then refined the details with rasps and files. The final polish would have brought out the stone’s subtle veining and translucent quality. Consider the social context: marble was a costly material, and its transformation required significant labor. This wasn't just Bissen’s work, but also that of quarrymen, stonecutters, and transport workers. A portrait bust like this was a status symbol, reflecting the sitter’s wealth and social standing, as well as the sculptor’s skill. By understanding the material and making process, we can better appreciate the social and cultural values embedded within this seemingly simple sculpture.