Mgr. Gerardus Wilhelmus van Heukelum, penning geslagen ter ere van zijn vijftigjarig priesterschap 1909

Carel Begeer struck this bronze medal in honor of Mgr. Gerardus Wilhelmus van Heukelum, a priest celebrating fifty years of service. Looking at this, I can only imagine Begeer in the studio, meticulously planning out the composition, carving each detail with precision and care. The image emerges slowly, stroke by stroke. The patina of the bronze feels warm, highlighting the textures and intricate details of the cleric's profile and the symbolic coat of arms. I imagine the artist carefully considering each line, each curve, thinking about how it contributes to the overall feeling. The relief is amazing! There is an almost painterly quality. It reminds me a little of some of the portrait busts made by Honore Daumier. Artists are always learning from each other and building on what came before, whether they know it or not. I wonder if Carel was looking at Daumier when he made this medal?