Plaster cast workshop
Created in the 19th century, under Leopold II, the plaster cast workshop preserves and operates a collection of more then 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
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...
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!
The plaster cast workshop around 1900
The plaster cast workshop around 1900
The plaster cast workshop around 1900
The plaster cast workshop around 1900
The plaster cast workshop around 1900
130 years experience
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!
The plaster cast workshop today
The plaster cast workshop today
The plaster cast workshop today
Order a plaster cast
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 on site or by email. Discover the rich offer online or consult the catalogue on site!
Please note: The waiting time for a new order can be up to 2 years. So place your order on time (on site or by e-mail)! Thank you for your understanding.
E: moulages@kmkg-mrah.be
Ph:...
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 on site or by email. Discover the rich offer online or consult the catalogue on site!
Please note: The waiting time for a new order can be up to 2 years. So place your order on time (on site or by e-mail)! Thank you for your understanding.
E: moulages@kmkg-mrah.be
Ph: (0)2 741 72 94 - (0)2 741 72 93
Visit us
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). In addition, the Art & History Museum organizes monthly guided tours for individuals.
The Museum also offers guided tours for groups (with demonstration) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, by reservation only.
Curator in residence: Works of Art & Copies
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!
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.