Lily Czepanek, an innocent country girl, moves to Berlin after her strict aunt dies. There, she takes refuge with her equally stern but well-meaning cousin, Emma. Lily meets and becomes romantically involved with Richard Waldow, a sculptor who hires her as a model for a statue commissioned by Baron von Merzbach. During the modeling sessions, a deep romance blossoms between Lily and Richard, inspiring both their lives and art.

As their relationship intensifies, complications arise when Richard fiercely struggles with his artistic integrity while under pressure from Baron von Merzbach to sell out his artistic vision for commercial success. Torn between his love for Lily and his pursuit of genuine artistry, Richard faces emotional and professional turmoil. The baron, infatuated with Lily, offers her a life of luxury, presenting her with choices that test her values and loyalties. Subsequently, Lily must navigate her path, torn between true love and material comfort.