Plaster cast workshop
Created in the 19th century, under Leopold II, the plaster cast workshop preserves and operates a collection of nearly 5000 molds made on works of art dating from prehistory to the 18th century. For 130 years, new plaster casts have been continuously produced.
Specialized craftsmen work each piece one by one using traditional molding and patina techniques.
A unique 19th century legacy
How it began
The story begins in the 19th century, when several European countries agreed to exchange plaster casts of their masterpieces. The newly founded Belgian state also decided to actively participate for educational purposes by buying, selling and exchanging casts. In order to help circulate the European heritage as widely as possible, Belgium opened its own plaster cast workshop in the Brussels’ Parc du Cinquantenaire where eventually more than 5000 casts and molds were created. Until the 1930s, museum visitors were able to admire the casts in a monumental display. Afterwards...
How it began
The story begins in the 19th century, when several European countries agreed to exchange plaster casts of their masterpieces. The newly founded Belgian state also decided to actively participate for educational purposes by buying, selling and exchanging casts. In order to help circulate the European heritage as widely as possible, Belgium opened its own plaster cast workshop in the Brussels’ Parc du Cinquantenaire where eventually more than 5000 casts and molds were created. Until the 1930s, museum visitors were able to admire the casts in a monumental display. Afterwards, partly due to changing museological views, the collection was moved and stored out of sight. The workshop, however, continued to operate!
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Atelier circa 1900
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Atelier circa 1900
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Atelier circa 1900
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Atelier circa 1900
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Atelier circa 1900
130 years experience
Today
For 130 years, in this place master cast makers have been producing faithful copies of the most famous sculptures in European history from 19th century moulds. Forget 3D printing, our craftsmen only use traditional techniques. The pieces are made to order for other museums, academies, schools, companies and individuals both in Belgium and abroad. In this picture-perfect setting, you will come face to face with the most famous sculptures from antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance!
Ordering
By offering casts for sale, the workshop makes art accessible to schools, academies, scientific and commercial institutions or enthusiasts in Belgium and abroad. A few small casts are in stock. But most reproductions (of busts, full-length statues, reliefs, and other sculptures) have to be ordered.
You can place an order via the e-mail address below.
Please note : The waiting time for a new order can be up to 2 years. So place your order on time! Thank you for your understanding.
Questions?
E: moulages@kmkg-mrah.be
T: (0)2 741 72 94 - (0)2 741 72 93
Discover the collection
The collection includes numerous portrait busts, monumental and smaller statues and reliefs. They are masterpieces of European art history from Antiquity to the 18th century. Discover the rich offer online or consult the catalogue on site!
Discover the cataloguePurchase a plaster cast
A limited number of casts are immediately available from stock, but most works are made to order. This can be done on site or by e-mail. Request your price quote here.
Place your orderVisiting
Visiting individually
The plaster cast workshop is free to individual visitors without a guide on Thursdays from 13:30 to 16:00 (except on Ascension Day, November 2 and 15, holidays falling on a Thursday and the week between Christmas and New Year).
The Museum also organises monthly guided tours. New dates will be announced soon.
Book your placeVisiting in group
The Museum of Art & History organises guided tours for groups (with demonstration) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, by reservation only.
Reservation formVideo: A peek inside the plaster cast workshop
Ever wondered how the perfect replicas of masterpieces from major European museums are made? Follow us for an exclusive tour of the casting workshop! (4'30)
Video: Behind the scenes of the plaster cast workshop
This RTBF report highlights the richness of the collections as well as the work of the employees of the plaster cast workshop. (3'39)
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