Plasterkop

Plasterkop is a Dutch term that literally means “plaster head.” It refers to a plaster cast of a human head (often a bust) that is used as a model in art and education. Plasterkoppen are common in art schools, studios, and museums, where they serve as drawing and painting references or as practice pieces for sculptors learning form, shading, and anatomy. They can vary in size from small desktop heads to life-size representations and are typically finished in white or off-white plaster, though some may be tinted or painted to resemble skin tones.

Construction and types: a plasterkop is usually made by taking a plaster cast from an initial head sculpture or from a live model, creating a durable, repeatable form for study. The object may depict a neutral expression or be altered to emphasize particular anatomical features. In some contexts, multiple plasterkoppen exist to illustrate different ages, genders, or stylistic treatments in artistic curricula.

Uses and context: beyond art education, plasterkoppen have been used in theatrical and film production as props or dummy heads, and in museums or private collections as decorative or study pieces. They provide stable, low-maintenance references for anatomy, portrait practice, or restoration work.

Care and preservation: plasterkoppen require protection from moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical impact. Handling with clean hands or gloves and displaying on stable supports helps prevent damage. When damaged, professional conservation approaches restore surface and structural integrity.

Etymology and usage: the word combines plaster and kop (head) in Dutch, and the concept is recognized in Dutch-speaking art and education communities. See also bust, plaster cast, sculpture, head model.