Twee reliëfs c. 1875 - 1900

These two reliefs, by an anonymous artist, are made of plaster cast. This material is often overlooked, but its inherent qualities are essential to understanding these works. Plaster is made by heating gypsum, a readily available mineral. Once mixed with water, it can be easily molded, and then sets hard. This made it ideal for replicating sculptures and architectural details. The texture of the plaster – smooth yet capable of holding fine detail – allows for a faithful reproduction of the original carvings. The weight of the material is also a factor; though lighter than stone, it still conveys a sense of substance. The use of plaster casts raises questions about originality and labor. While the initial carving might have been the work of a skilled artisan, the subsequent casts could be produced more quickly and cheaply. This democratization of art allowed for wider access to classical forms, but also potentially devalued the hand-crafted object. Understanding the relationship between the plaster cast and the original sculpture allows us to appreciate the complexities of artistic production and consumption.