Each work by the French sculptor Charles Cordier (1827-1905) is far more than a static plaster cast or a mere piece of stone. It is a living, breathing page of his travel journal, capturing the true diversity of human beauty.

We are presenting our new audio story, which offers an in-depth look into the life of this prominent Second Empire portraitist and acclaimed master of Orientalism. Together with the great artisan, we will embark on the risky and thrilling expeditions of the 19^th century.

In this audio story, you will discover:
– how a passion for anthropology and a quest for absolute accuracy led the sculptor to introduce polychrome (multi-colored) sculpture to the world;
– the history of Ch. Cordier recognition: why his fame grew with each passing year, and why his masterpieces were eagerly sought after for the private collections of Queen Victoria of Great Britain and Emperor Napoleon III of France;
– the essence of his unique method: how Cordier forever transformed academic art by capturing representatives of various races in stone, onyx, and bronze, masterfully blurring the lines between rigorous science and pure aesthetics.

Today, masterpieces of Charles Cordier are recognized as world heritage, gracing the finest exhibition halls across the globe. You can also view these rare works in person in Moscow: the "Western European Sculpture" section of the museum Collection features a uniquely comprehensive display of around 60 pieces by Charles Cordier –an innovative French sculptor who became one of the pioneers and most brilliant masters of Orientalism in 19th-century European art.

On the cover: Portrait of a Berber (Saïd Abdallah of the Mayac, Kingdom of Darfur). Charles Cordier. France. Second half of the 19^th century.