Albert Speer 

This is a portrait bust of Albert Speer, made by Arno Breker. Breker was a technically gifted artist who worked in stone, plaster, and bronze. Here, we see a plaster version. The most striking aspect of this work is its use of classical realism. Breker renders Speer with a smoothness and precision that recalls ancient Greek and Roman sculpture. This aesthetic choice is significant, as it was a deliberate attempt to align the Nazi regime with the perceived grandeur and order of classical civilizations. Consider the labor involved in creating such a piece. A skilled artisan would have spent countless hours meticulously carving and refining the plaster, aiming for an idealized likeness. The process embodies a fusion of technical skill and political intent. Ultimately, this bust of Albert Speer highlights the complex relationship between art, craft, and ideology. It challenges us to look beyond the surface beauty and consider the social and political forces that shaped its creation.