Gipsmodel voor de versiering van het Palais du Louvre door Etienne Jacquemin c. 1855 - 1857

This is a photograph by Edouard Baldus of a plaster model for the decoration of the Palais du Louvre. Baldus was a master of photography, and here he shows us the kind of intricate planning that went into the Louvre’s architecture. Plaster models like the one shown here were essential for visualizing and refining designs before committing them to stone. This was a common practice, where skilled artisans would translate an architect’s vision into a tangible form. The plaster allowed for easy adjustments and iterations, a crucial step in ensuring the final product met the aesthetic and structural requirements of the building. Consider the amount of work that went into making these models. They were not just functional tools, but also testaments to the skill and artistry of the model makers. Baldus’ photograph captures not only the design itself, but also the labor and expertise embedded in its creation.