Reinhold Begas

Place: Berlin

Born: 1831

Death: 1911

Biography:

Reinhold Begas was a prominent German sculptor born on July 15, 1831, in Berlin, Germany. He was the son of painter Carl Joseph Begas and received his early education under Christian Daniel Rauch and Ludwig Wilhelm Wichmann from 1846 to 1851. During his period of study in Italy from 1856 to 1858, he was influenced by Arnold Böcklin and Franz von Lenbach, which led him towards a naturalistic style in sculpture.

Early Career and Influences

Begas' early work was marked by the group Borussia, executed for the facade of the exchange in Berlin, which brought him into general notice. He was appointed professor at the art school at Weimar in 1861 but retained the position only for a few months. The Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin is home to one of Begas' notable works, Pan Comforting Psyche, created in 1858.

Notable Works and Contributions

Some of Begas' chief works include the colossal statue of Borussia for the Hall of Glory, the Neptune fountain in bronze on the Schlossplatz, and the statue of Alexander von Humboldt. He also created the sarcophagus of Emperor Frederick III in the mausoleum of the Church of Peace at Potsdam and the national monument to Emperor William I. Begas' work can be found in various museums, including the Alte Nationalgalerie and the Nationalgalerie in Berlin.

Awards and Recognition

Begas was chosen to execute the statue of Friedrich Schiller for the Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin, a high tribute to his fame. He dominated the plastic art in the Kingdom of Prussia, especially in Berlin, from 1870 onwards.

• Colossal statue of Borussia for the Hall of Glory
• Neptune fountain in bronze on the Schlossplatz
• Alexander von Humboldt statue
• Friedrich Schiller statue for the Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin

For more information about Reinhold Begas and his works, visit Reinhold Begas on Wikioo.org or check out his page on Wikipedia. Some of his notable works can be found at the Alte Nationalgalerie, such as Pan Comforting Psyche, which showcases his exceptional skill and artistry.