The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), established in the early 19th century as one of Belgium's premier cultural institutions, houses A Plaster Model for a Sculpture, Inventory No. 1872, by Paul De Vigne (1843-1901), a significant Belgian sculptor known for his contributions to the nation's artistic heritage.

This plaster model depicts mythological figures, demonstrating De Vigne's masterful understanding of classical forms and his meticulous attention to detail. As preliminary works, plaster models held particular importance in the sculptural process of the 19th century, allowing artists to refine their compositions before committing to more permanent materials like marble or bronze.

De Vigne, who studied at the academies of Ghent and Brussels before spending time in Italy and Paris, became known for his public monuments and idealised figurative works. His sculptural style typically blended academic rigour with emotionally expressive elements, creating works that were technically accomplished while conveying deeper symbolic meanings.

The mythological theme of this model reflects the continuing importance of classical subject matter in 19th-century European sculpture. Artists of this period often drew upon Greek and Roman mythology to convey universal ideas through timeless imagery, using familiar narratives to explore contemporary concerns about beauty, morality, or human achievement.

The presence of this preparatory model in the museum's collection provides valuable insight into the artistic process and the technical aspects of sculpture production during this period. It demonstrates how mythological themes continued to serve as vehicles for artistic expression well into the modern era, maintaining their cultural relevance even as artistic styles evolved.