OPPORTUNE ITINERARY CHANGES

One key to a successful trip is to be flexible and sometimes a deviation from the itinerary is a great idea. Such was the case when we found ourselves a couple of blocks from Musée Rodin en route to the metro station home. Too close to not take advantage of the gorgeous day and enjoy Auguste Rodin's sculptures outside in the gardens. It was opportune and re-energizing.

After passing through the modern entrance of Rodin's earlier works of noble busts, portraits and sketches, I was anxious  to be amongst Rodin's sculptures after views into the lovely gardens... It was fascinating to discover Rodin was self taught and practiced his art originally sketching at the Louvre. WOW.

 Only a few roses of the many rose bushes  were blooming but they were stellar amidst all the green, stone and metal . 

Mansion where Rodin worked and lived

Strolling through the tree laden back garden rooms the oversized hands and feet were inescapable, a major characteristic of Rodin's work besides their restlessness.

They say if you want to touch sculpture the artist has done his job. Rodin did not fall short... 

Returning the original patina is underway for the Burghers of Calais...

Rodin's life has recently been released in a movie filmed in Villa de Brillants in Maudon, Rodin's original home, giving his story credulity. The Museum was worried until the screen play was read revealing extensive research conducted by the director. Photo archives also helped with costume and artifact period accuracy. 


This movie was tackily advertised through numerous posters affixed to trees down a cooler shady back allee BUT I did learn more about Rodin.

At 40, in 1880 Rodin's Gates of Hell received Rodin's first state commission included in these works are:

 The Thinker (R) and 
The Kiss( below)

The Kiss

Rodin's life long partner had been Rose until he met a young woman, Camille Claudet who becomes his pupil, then mistress and equal for a decade. Upon their break up he continued creating with a fervor, placing his energies into his craftsmanship as it evolved into the modern sculpture of Balzac.  His work remained hidden as he worked to perfect it with drawings and many clay figures. (photo to be added)

 In 1897 he painstakingly unveiled the modern piece of Balzac amidst  public and conservative critique. Numerous artists including Miro praised him for both his art and poetry. Some refer to Rodin as the modern Michelangelo. What do you think?

Impressive no matter where  Rodin's work sits, it was extra special to be enjoying his art where he once worked and lived...