Vestalka 1917

Ivan Mestrovic’s ‘Vestalka’ is made from bronze, a material prized for its strength and capacity to capture fine detail. Bronze casting involves creating a mold, often using wax, which is then filled with molten metal. The lost-wax process that Mestrovic likely employed is labor-intensive, demanding a high level of skill. The rippling drapery and subtly modeled anatomy of ‘Vestalka’ speak to his mastery of the medium. Bronze has long been associated with power and permanence. The figure's pose, with hands resting on her feet, evokes a sense of groundedness and contemplation. While the smooth surface suggests a classical ideal, the visible marks of the artist’s hand add a layer of intimacy. This merging of tradition and personal expression complicates any easy distinction between fine art and craft. Approaching the work with an understanding of its making allows us to appreciate the skill and artistic vision that brought it into being.