Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) was a French sculptor who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Western sculpture. He is known for his innovative approach to form and texture, as well as his ability to convey intense emotion and psychological depth in his sculptures.Born on November 12, 1840, in Paris, Rodin initially studied drawing and sculpture at the École des Beaux-Arts. However, his unconventional style and desire to break free from academic conventions led him to struggle in gaining recognition early in his career.Rodin's breakthrough came in 1877 with the unveiling of his sculpture "The Age of Bronze," which depicted a life-size nude male figure. The sculpture was praised for its realism and naturalism, but also stirred controversy due to its departure from idealized forms. Rodin's ability to capture the human body's natural movement, musculature, and emotion set him apart from his contemporaries.One of Rodin's most famous works is "The Thinker" (Le Penseur), created between 1880 and 1882. It depicts a seated male figure deep in thought, with his chin resting on his hand. "The Thinker" has become an iconic symbol of intellectual and philosophical contemplation.Rodin also achieved acclaim for his monumental sculpture "The Gates of Hell" (La Porte de l'Enfer), a massive project inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy. Although it was never fully realized during his lifetime, many of the figures from "The Gates of Hell" were later developed into standalone sculptures, including "The Kiss" and "The Burghers of Calais."Rodin's sculptures often focused on human emotion and the human condition, exploring themes of love, anguish, desire, and vulnerability. He used techniques such as rough textures, fragmented forms, and exaggerated gestures to convey intensity and expressive power.In addition to his sculptures, Rodin was an accomplished draftsman and produced thousands of drawings throughout his career, capturing fleeting moments, studies of the human body, and preparatory sketches for his sculptures.Today, Rodin's works can be found in major museums and public spaces around the world. His contributions to the medium of sculpture, particularly his emphasis on capturing the inner life and emotional depth of his subjects, continue to inspire and influence artists to this day. Rodin's impact on the development of modern sculpture and his mastery of form and expression solidify his position as one of the great artistic innovators of his time.
Measures 10 x 10.5 x 6.5.
Cast marble.
Hand patinated.