Bijbelse figuur 1800 - 1900

This Biblical figure was created by Eugène Lacomblé, and is made of plaster. Plaster is an interesting material, as it can be easily molded, but is also fragile. Looking closely, the material seems roughly handled: we can see the marks left by the artist's tools. Lacomblé would have added water to the dry plaster powder to make a paste, then poured it into a mold, or built it up by hand. The weight, texture, and color of the plaster contribute to the figure's solemn appearance. The drapery, while carefully rendered, is somewhat stiff, as if the artist worked quickly before the plaster dried. There is no head on this figure; we are left to interpret the identity of the Biblical character by their robes alone. Though plaster is easily sourced and worked, the amount of time, and process involved in the creation of this sculpture illustrates Lacomblé's mastery of craft. This approach invites us to appreciate the sculpture not just as an artwork, but as an example of skilled making.