Departementschef C.M. Weis 1861

Here we see H.W. Bissen's compelling portrait "Departementschef C.M. Weis," a sculpture approximately 62 cm high, whose materiality invites contemplation. The bust presents a striking study in form, balanced between classical composition and naturalistic detail. We are invited to look at the textured hair and beard, each curl and strand meticulously shaped to convey a sense of vitality. However, it's the gaze that commands our attention. The eyes, though unpainted, possess a piercing quality, achieved through the subtle modeling of the surrounding planes. Weis becomes an emblem of a society undergoing significant change, mirroring the transition from Romantic idealism to a more pragmatic worldview. This tension, evident in the sculpture’s structure, provokes ongoing discussions about the convergence of art, identity, and social context.