Den svenske biskop J.H. Thomander 1860

This is a portrait bust of the Swedish Bishop J.H. Thomander, made by H.W. Bissen. Bissen was a leading light in the Danish neoclassical sculpture scene, and this piece is a great example of the kind of work he was known for. The original was likely sculpted from clay, then cast in plaster or bronze – a common technique in the 19th century, allowing for relatively easy reproduction. Notice how the material – most likely bronze – and the processes used to create the artwork influence its appearance, especially the texture and weight of the sculpture, and the smooth patinated surface of the face. These techniques required skill and technical knowledge to be able to produce the final result. The bust is not just a representation, but an object made through a confluence of labor, class, and artistry. Recognizing this helps us appreciate the full complexity of the work.