Drie gipsafgietsels van reliëfs in het Musée des monuments français, voorstellende vrouwen met waterkruiken c. 1875 - 1900

These three plaster casts of reliefs, photographed by Médéric Mieusement, capture the essence of classical sculpture through reproduction. Plaster casting is a traditional method used to duplicate sculptures, allowing for wider distribution and study of important works. The process begins with creating a mold from the original sculpture. Liquid plaster is then poured into the mold, solidifying to form an exact replica. The material itself, plaster, is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for both artists and educational institutions. The texture and weight of the plaster give these casts a tactile quality, inviting closer inspection of the draped figures and their water jugs. By engaging with this photograph of plaster casts, we can reflect on the intersection of art, craft, and industry in the 19th century. It challenges the conventional hierarchy that places original artworks above reproductions, highlighting the value of craft in disseminating artistic knowledge.