36 Facts About Rodin

Rodin's Early Life

Auguste Rodin, a name synonymous with sculpture, had a fascinating early life that shaped his future.

1. 01Born on November 12, 1840, in Paris, Rodin's full name was François-Auguste-René Rodin.
2. 02Rodin struggled with poor eyesight, which affected his education and led him to focus on art.
3. 03At age 14, he enrolled in the Petite École, a school specializing in art and mathematics.
4. 04Despite his talent, Rodin failed the entrance exam for the École des Beaux-Arts three times.

Rodin's Artistic Journey

Rodin's path to becoming a renowned sculptor was filled with challenges and breakthroughs.

5. 05He worked as a craftsman and decorator for over 20 years before gaining recognition.
6. 06His first major work, "The Age of Bronze," was so lifelike that critics accused him of casting it from a live model.
7. 07Rodin's "The Thinker" was initially part of a larger work called "The Gates of Hell."
8. 08"The Kiss," another famous piece, was originally titled "Francesca da Rimini."

Rodin's Personal Life

Rodin's personal life was as complex and intriguing as his art.

9. 09He had a long-term relationship with Rose Beuret, whom he met in 1864.
10. 10Rodin and Rose had a son, Auguste-Eugène Beuret, born in 1866.
11. 11Despite their lifelong relationship, Rodin married Rose only in the last year of her life, 1917.
12. 12He had a tumultuous affair with fellow artist Camille Claudel, who was also his muse and assistant.

Rodin's Influence and Legacy

Rodin's impact on the art world extends far beyond his lifetime.

13. 13He is often considered the father of modern sculpture.
14. 14Rodin's work influenced many 20th-century artists, including Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore.
15. 15The Musée Rodin in Paris, dedicated to his work, opened in 1919.
16. 16His sculptures are displayed in major museums worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum.

Rodin's Techniques and Style

Rodin's unique techniques and style set him apart from his contemporaries.

17. 17He often left parts of his sculptures unfinished to give them a raw, dynamic quality.
18. 18Rodin used a technique called "assemblage," combining different materials and pieces to create a single work.
19. 19He preferred working with clay and plaster before casting his sculptures in bronze or marble.
20. 20Rodin's expressive use of texture and form broke away from the smooth, idealized figures of traditional sculpture.

Rodin's Major Works

Rodin's portfolio includes some of the most iconic sculptures in art history.

21. 21"The Burghers of Calais" commemorates the heroism of six citizens during the Hundred Years' War.
22. 22"The Gates of Hell," inspired by Dante's "Inferno," took over 37 years to complete.
23. 23"Balzac," a tribute to the French writer, was initially criticized but later hailed as a masterpiece.
24. 24"Monument to Victor Hugo" captures the writer in a moment of creative inspiration.

Rodin's Later Years

Rodin's later years were marked by both personal and professional milestones.

25. 25He was awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour in 1914.
26. 26Rodin continued to work until his death, producing over 7,000 sculptures.
27. 27He passed away on November 17, 1917, just days after his wife Rose.
28. 28Rodin was buried in Meudon, France, with "The Thinker" placed above his grave.

Rodin's Recognition and Honors

Rodin received numerous accolades and honors throughout his career.

29. 29He was elected to the prestigious Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1905.
30. 30Rodin received honorary doctorates from universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.
31. 31He was a member of the Royal Academy of Arts in London.
32. 32Rodin's work was exhibited at the 1900 Paris Exposition, solidifying his international reputation.

Rodin's Influence on Modern Art

Rodin's innovative approach continues to inspire modern artists.

33. 33His emphasis on realism and emotion paved the way for Expressionism.
34. 34Rodin's use of fragmented forms influenced Abstract and Surrealist artists.
35. 35Contemporary sculptors like Anish Kapoor and Antony Gormley cite Rodin as a major influence.
36. 36Rodin's legacy lives on through the countless artists and institutions that continue to celebrate his work.

Rodin's Legacy Lives On

Rodin's work continues to inspire and captivate art lovers worldwide. His sculptures, like "The Thinker" and "The Kiss," remain iconic symbols of human emotion and creativity. Rodin's innovative techniques and dedication to realism broke new ground in the art world, influencing countless artists who followed. His legacy isn't just in museums; it's in the way we understand and appreciate sculpture today. Rodin's passion for capturing the human spirit in bronze and marble has left an indelible mark on art history. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual observer, Rodin's masterpieces offer a glimpse into the depth of human expression. His contributions remind us that art can transcend time, speaking to the core of our shared humanity. So next time you see one of his works, take a moment to reflect on the genius behind the sculpture.