The story of the great love began in 1905 at the Képzőművészeti Egyetem, then known as the Mintarajziskola. Between 1906 and 1907, Bory Jenő undertook a two-year study trip to Germany and Italy on a state scholarship.
During his travels, he spent several months in Carrara, where he learnt the skills of working marble and the craft of sculpture in the renowned workshop of Paolo Triscornia. At that time, he carved from memory a youthful portrait of his fiancée, bearing witness to his deep feelings. The marble sculpture is located on the mantelpiece in the Fireplace Room of the Picture Gallery.
In the Rose Garden, a ceramic version of the work may also be admired, accompanied by the following heartfelt declaration in verse:
Where is the idea
The kindling thought,
Which inspires so many
And sweeps them away in flame
Where is the idea
That kindles me
Like your childlike
Charming spirit
Where is the rose
The virginal lily,
That brings cheer
To the clouded brow
Where is the rose,
That would be fairer to me,
Than your little face,
My sweet beloved