Bertel Thorvaldsen

Albert Bertel Thorvaldsen was a Danish sculptor and medalist of international fame, who spent most of his life (1797–1838) in Italy. Thorvaldsen was born in Copenhagen into a working-class Danish/Icelandic family, and was accepted to the Royal Danish Academy of Art at the age of eleven. Working part-time with his father, who was a wood carver, Thorvaldsen won many honors and medals at the academy. He was awarded a stipend to travel to Rome and continue his education.

19 November 1770

Born on the same birth day (19 November): Bunny Ahearne • Dan Haggerty • George Emil Palade • Indira Gandhi • Jon Potter • Kakhaber Kacharava • Keith Buckley • Leam Richardson • Lord Chancellor • Richard Virenque • Wilhelm Dilthey