(Karl Albert) Bertel Thorvaldsen (Danish pronunciation: [ˌbɛɐ̯dl̩ ˈtɔɐ̯vælsn̩]; ca. 1770 – 24 March 1844) was a Danish sculptor of international fame, who spent most of his life in Italy (from 1789–1838). Thorvaldsen was born in Copenhagen into a Danish/Icelandic family of humble means, and was accepted to the Royal Danish Academy of Art when he was eleven years old. 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.