Comment on Omkring 1.2.1804

As a consequence of Thorvaldsen’s petition of 7.11.1803 to Schimmelmann, she asked Herman Schubart in her letter to pay the sculptor “…one or two hundred rix-dollars… just arrange it so that he will be freed from his oppressive circumstances which would have a harmful effect on his health.” Thus the amount was apparently to be regarded as a present.
Nevertheless, Thorvaldsen gallantly chose to regard the money as an advance on an unspecified commission and therefore asks what “subject” would be suitable.
However, it is not known whether Thorvaldsen ever received the money.
Regarding the financial relations between Schubert and Thorvaldsen, see ...the Only Price I Charge.

Last updated 10.02.2015