After four tortured years, more than 400 over life-sized figures, I felt as old and as weary as Jeremiah. I was only 37, yet friends did not recognize the old man I had become.

After four tortured years, more than 400 over life-sized figures, I felt as old and as weary as Jeremiah. I was only 37, yet friends did not recognize the old man I had become.

It is well with me only when I have a chisel in my hand.

I live and love in God's peculiar light.

Perchance that I might learn what pity is, That I might laugh at erring men no more.

The marble not yet carved can hold the form of every thought the greatest artist has.

So now, from this mad passion Which made me take art for an idol and a king I have learnt the burden of error that it bore And what misfortune springs from man's desire... The world's frivolities have robbed me of the time That I was given for reflecting upon God.