“The Greatest Sculptor”: Bertel Thorvaldsen According to Kierkegaard

Abstract

Abstract The common ground where Thorvaldsen and Kierkegaard meet is Copenhagen. This essay focuses on the places—both physical and theoretical—in which the comparison between the two is made possible. First of all, the Vor Frue Kirke, where some of Thorvaldsen’s most important sculptures are displayed, as well as where Kierkegaard used to go both as a member of the community and as a preacher. This article presents a perspective on the intersection that exists in a horizontal sense for Thorvaldsen, and for Kierkegaard in a vertical sense, culminating at the feet of the altar from which their heartfelt messages emanate.