Jaksic Stonemasonry
Workshop and Gallery

Stone Bust for a Private Client – Work of Sculptor Lovre Jakšić

- this stone bust, a precisely modelled portrait in stone, is the work of our academic sculptor Lovre Jakšić. Although commissioned by a private client, its quality, complexity and level of modelling place it alongside the busts and public monuments that our sculptor creates for cultural institutions and public spaces. The aim of such a commission is always the same – to convey the likeness of the person as faithfully and sensitively as possible, turning it into a lasting artistic work. Creating a portrait in stone is one of the most demanding processes in figurative sculpture. The work begins with a clay model, where the volume, proportions and characteristic facial features are defined. The clay model is then transformed into a plaster negative, followed by a plaster positive that serves as the reference model for further work. From this model, the measurements are transferred onto the stone block using the pointing technique. Pointing is a traditional method in which a precise mechanical system transfers reference points, ensuring that the sculpture retains all necessary proportions, depths and angles. This technique is essential for achieving the accuracy and authenticity required for a lifelike sculpture, especially when shaping a stone face. After pointing comes the long and detailed phase of hand-carving, during which the bust gains its final character. This is when the face in stone develops soft transitions, convincing expressions and psychological depth. Special attention is given to the eyes, lips, skin texture and all subtle details that make the portrait appear alive and authentic. The bust is placed on an elegant stone pedestal, also crafted in our workshop, featuring a hand-carved family crest — a personalised detail that enhances the overall composition and highlights the value of the commission. Such elements showcase the high level of craftsmanship involved in each stage of production. Through his extensive body of work, Lovre Jakšić has created numerous sculptures, stone busts and public monuments — from portraits of important historical figures to intimate works that preserve personal stories and family memories. This new stone head is yet another example of the permanence, refinement and expressive power of figurative sculpture, which remains timeless precisely because it preserves human likeness and life stories in stone.