Zes gedecoreerde kapitelen, gebeeldhouwd door Jean Herman before 1880

Charles Claesen made this print of six decorated capitals sculpted by Jean Herman. Capital designs like these speak to the culture of architectural classicism within the European academy system. Dating back to the Renaissance, the classical orders were revived as the correct and proper forms for civic and religious buildings. Publications like this one, disseminated classical designs and motifs to architects across Europe, influencing the look and feel of cityscapes. The original sculptures would have been carved in stone for specific buildings, but here they are presented as examples of the proper way to design classical architecture. We can learn more about the cultural and institutional context of this print by researching the Belgian art and architecture scene in the 19th century. What role did the academy play? Who was the intended audience? What buildings were they intended for? Approaching art history in this way helps us to understand the social function of art and the role of institutions in shaping artistic production.