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Baptismal angel
  • TitleBaptismal angel
  • Technique/ MaterialMarble
  • DimensionsDimensions: (h) 181 cm
  • Artist/Maker Artist: Bertel Thorvaldsen, Danish, born 1768-11-13 or 1770-11-19, born 1768-11-13 or 1770-11-19, dead 1844-03-24
  • CategorySculpture
  • Inventory No.NMSk 1363
  • AcquisitionPurchase 1932
  • ExhibitedNationalmuseum, Room 1280 The Sculpture Courtyard
  • Description
    Artist/Maker
    Images and media

    The Angel is a baptismal font by Thorvaldsen for the Vor Frue church in Copenhagen. It was located in front of the altar at the end of the central aisle, giving the impression that the angel greeted the visitors, making them a part of the community through baptism. It was later replaced by a kneeling angel in front of a monumental figure of Christ with open arms. Thorvaldsen was, in addition to Antonio Canova, the foremost sculptor of his time.