Radboud University
A bust of Professor Jos de Waele (1938-2001), former professor of Classical Archaeology at the Faculty of Arts of Radboud University was revealed in the Erasmus building on Tuesday 1 July. With this gesture, the faculty honours a dedicated researcher and an inspiring lecturer, who was of great significance to archaeological research both nationally and internationally.
The bust, created by visual artist Joris Verdonkschot, occupies a central place in the hall of the Erasmus Building. The bust is unpolished, revealing traces of the casting process, and the underside has been deliberately left unfinished. The sculpture rests in a seemingly fragile balance on its pedestal. The artwork was commissioned by the Executive Board as a lasting reminder of his scientific legacy.
Prof André Lardinois, vice dean of the Faculty of Arts, opened the ceremony. Rector Magnificus Prof. José Sanders paid a short tribute to Prof. De Waele, after which she unveiled the statue together with his widow. A family member concluded the ceremony with a personal word of thanks.
This was followed by a public lecture on the work and influence of Prof De Waele. Colleagues from the Netherlands and abroad looked back on his research, vision and impact on their own work.
Prof Jos de Waele was renowned for his innovative insights into Doric temple architecture, his fieldwork in Italy and Greece, and his dedication to academic education. His passion for his profession lives on in the current generation of archaeologists.