BK-14591-B

About this artwork

Legaat van de heer W.S. Burger, Antwerpen

Art Historical Context

**BK-14591 by Francois Marcus Simons (1803)** Step into the refined world of early 19th-century sculpture *BK-14591-B*, a meticulously crafted casting by Francois Marcus Simons, dated 1803. just 15.9 cm high, 13.7 cm wide, 6.3 cm deep, and weighing a modest 287 grams, this intimate object exemplifies the artistry of small-scale works popular during the Napoleonic era. Created through the casting process—likely involving molds for metal or plaster—this technique allowed sculptors to achieve fine details and reproducibility, bridging classical traditions with emerging industrial precision. Simons, working in a time of political upheaval in Europe, contributed to the legacy of detailed, portable art forms that adorned private collections. The piece's compact size suggests it may have served as a desk ornament, medal, or devotional item, reflecting the era's fascination with tactile, personal expressions of craftsmanship. This treasure entered our collection as the *legaat* (bequest) from Mr. W.S. Burger of Antwerp, a nod to the city's vibrant role in preserving Flemish and European artistic heritage. A testament to enduring appreciation, it invites us to ponder the hands that shaped it over two centuries ago.