A VISIT TO THE CAST COURTS, VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON

Opened in 1873, the Cast Courts display copies of some of the world’s most significant works of art reproduced in plaster, electrotype, photography and digital media. Michelangelo’s David, Trajan’s column and Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise are all represented. They were intended to embody the museum’s mission as a school of art education and remain a rare survivor as well as displaying pieces whose originals have since been lost or have deteriorated. More recently, conservation work has led to reinstatement of the Cast Courts’ original colours, architectural details and finishes. Led by the Senior Curator of Metalwork and the Curator of Sculpture 1800–1900, we will be taken round in a small group with an opportunity for object handling.

For more information, contact the organiser David Wurtzel: davidww35@gmail.com