Plaster reproductions of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures have been important tools for classical education and artistic training for centuries. Professor John C. Pickard, who founded the study of classics and art history at the University of Missouri, built a collection to support the study of ancient art and culture and to raise the profile of the state’s flagship university. In Ellis Library – as part of an archive of history – this collection reminds us not only of the important legacy of the original works of ancient art, but also how historical reproductions can provide an immersive learning experience to students and the community.

The plaster casts in Ellis Library are owned by MU’s School of Visual Studies.