Model for the tomb of Maerten Harpertsz Tromp 1654

Rombout Verhulst created this 17th-century terracotta and wood model for the tomb of Maerten Harpertsz Tromp. Verhulst was a master of carving, especially in stone and wood. His skills were highly sought after for tombs, public monuments, and portraits. Here, the terracotta panel, with its soft, pliable texture, is ideal for the intricate details of the figures. The cherubic figures, drapery, and armorial shields contrast with the solid, dark wood frame. But the choice of terracotta also implies a distance from the 'high art' material of marble, typically used for commemorative sculpture. The reddish color has a warmth and immediacy that marble lacks. Consider the sheer labor involved in producing such a detailed work, from the initial design to the carving and assembly. It's a testament to Verhulst's skill and the workshop practices of the time. This model, therefore, sits at the intersection of craft, design, and fine art, challenging the traditional hierarchies of artistic production.