Gipsmodellen voor beeldhouwwerken op het Palais du Louvre: links "Mézeray" door Louis Joseph Daumas en rechts "Molière" door Gabriel Bernard Seurre c. 1855 - 1857

This photograph by renowned French photographer Edouard Baldus, taken between 1855 and 1857, captures plaster models for sculptures intended for the Palais du Louvre. The sculptures, by Louis Joseph Daumas and Gabriel Bernard Seurre, depict Mézeray and Molière, respectively, both prominent figures in French history. The image showcases the meticulous detail of the models and provides a glimpse into the artistic process behind the final sculptures, exemplifying the burgeoning art photography of the 19th century. The work is housed in the Rijksmuseum, offering art enthusiasts an intimate look at the creative vision behind monumental public art.