Beeldhouwer in zijn werkplaats 1887

Josué Dupon made this print, called Sculptor in his Studio, sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. It gives us a glimpse into the world of artistic production at that time. The image shows a sculptor in his workspace, surrounded by his creations. The artist is depicted in a moment of contemplation, perhaps considering his next move. This image offers a fascinating look into the artist's world, but we can also see it as a statement about the role of the artist in society. In the cultural context of late 19th-century Europe, artists were often seen as figures who could provide spiritual and moral guidance. They were increasingly part of an institutionalized world of galleries and museums that helped shape their reputations and offered a platform for the creation of national culture. Understanding this print requires that we look into the cultural history of art and the place of the artist in a changing society. Research into the artistic institutions of the time will further illuminate the world of Josué Dupon.