Bertel Thorvaldsen created this plaster relief, "The Hours of the Day," to illustrate the passage of time using classical figures. The choice of plaster is significant. Sculptors often used it to create models for larger marble works. Plaster allowed for adjustments and refinements before committing to the more expensive stone. In this case, the texture is smooth and uniform. The plaster captures the soft, flowing lines of the figures, emphasizing the cyclical nature of time. Thorvaldsen expertly manipulated the material to achieve a refined aesthetic, embodying a tradition of neoclassical sculpture. His skilled carving transforms humble plaster into a work of art that evokes timeless beauty and harmony. By focusing on the material and the handwork involved, we can appreciate how it transcends the distinction between craft and fine art.