In sculpture did ever anybody call the Apollo a fancy piece? Or say of the Laocoon how it might be made different? A masterpiece of art has in the mind a fixed place in the chain of being, as much as a plant or a crystal.

Summary

This quote, attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, emphasizes the inherent uniqueness and perfection of a masterpiece of art, such as Apollo or Laocoon sculptures. It suggests that true works of art, like plants or crystals, occupy a fixed and essential position in the natural order of existence. By referencing these timeless masterpieces, the quote implies that great artworks should be appreciated and accepted for their inherent brilliance, rather than being subjected to subjective assessments or attempts to alter their essence.

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