Academic sculpture

Academic sculpture refers to a style of sculpture developed by European art academies from the 16th to the 19th centuries, emphasizing technical skill, realism, and adherence to classical ideals. It focused on accurately depicting the human form, often inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art, with an emphasis on proportion, anatomy, and harmony. Artists trained in academic sculpture followed strict rules and techniques, producing works that conveyed clarity, order, and idealized beauty. This approach aimed to uphold traditional standards of excellence, positioning sculpture as both a fine art and a moral or intellectual pursuit.