Konseilspræsident, dr. jur. C.C. Hall 1863

This is H.W. Bissen’s bust of C.C. Hall, likely made in the mid-19th century, using plaster. Plaster has a long history, prized for its ability to capture fine details. But it's also a relatively inexpensive material, which made it perfect for reproducing likenesses like this one. The process would have begun with a clay model, carefully sculpted to capture Hall's features, and then a plaster mold taken from that. Once set, the mold could be removed, leaving a perfect copy. Often, these were made in series, for patrons who wanted a copy of the sculpture for themselves. Look closely and you'll see the soft, porous texture of the plaster, which gives a softness to Hall's face and hair. Bissen likely chose plaster for its ease of use, but also because it imbued a sense of nobility. The making of the bust connects directly to broader social issues of labor and politics, with the artist navigating the demands of patronage, and the economics of replication. Appreciating the materials and making of a work like this gives us a much fuller picture.