Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770-1844)
Bertel Thorvaldsen was born, raised, educated, and buried in Copenha-
gen, but his most productive years were spent in Rome. There he soaked
upthe prevailing style ofthe time: Neoclassical. Hestudied ancient Greek
and Roman statues, copying their balance, grace, and impassive beauty.
The simple-but-noble style suited the patriotism of the era, and Thorvald-
sen got rich off it. Public squares throughout Europe are dotted with his
works, celebrating local rulers, patriots, and historical figures looking like
Greek heroes or Roman conquerors.
