Early Life and Training

François Auguste René Rodin, a French sculptor, was born on November 12, 1840, in Paris, France. He was the second child of Marie Cheffer and Jean-Baptiste Rodin, a police department clerk. Rodin's early life was marked by his self-education, and he began drawing at the age of ten.

Artistic Career

Between 1864 and 1870, Rodin worked as an assistant to Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, a successful mass producer of objets d'art. This period allowed him to develop his skills and experience as a craftsman. In 1875, Rodin visited Italy, where he was deeply influenced by the works of Donatello and Michelangelo. Rodin's most notable sculptures, such as The Thinker (1880-1882) and The Kiss (1886-1898), were initially met with criticism. However, his unique ability to model complex, turbulent surfaces in clay eventually brought him recognition.

Legacy and Museum

Rodin's legacy solidified after his death in 1917. Today, the Musée Rodin in Paris, France, houses an extensive collection of his sculptures, drawings, and photographs. The museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, offering guided tours and audio guides.

• Discover the Masterpieces of Musée Rodin Paris, France
• Explore the history of painting and its evolution at Wikipedia
• Learn more about the history of the nude in art and its significance at Wikipedia

Key Works and Collections

* The Thinker (1880-1882) * The Kiss (1886-1898) * Musée Rodin, Paris, France Visit WahooArt.com for more information on François Auguste René Rodin and his works: François Auguste René Rodin's Artist Page Bathing Woman by François Auguste René Rodin

**Early Life and Training**

François Auguste René Rodin, a French sculptor, was born on November 12, 1840, in Paris, France. He is widely regarded as the progenitor of modern sculpture. Despite his traditional schooling, Rodin's approach to art was innovative and non-conformist. His early life was marked by a strong desire to create, which led him to attend the Petite École, a school specializing in art and mathematics.

**Artistic Career**

Rodin's artistic career can be characterized by his unique ability to model complex, turbulent surfaces in clay. Many of his most notable sculptures were initially criticized during his lifetime due to their departure from traditional figurative sculpture traditions. However, Rodin's persistence and dedication to his craft ultimately led to his recognition as the preeminent French sculptor of his time.

• The Thinker (1880-1882), one of Rodin's most famous sculptures, is a prime example of his innovative approach to art.
• The Kiss (1886-1898), another iconic sculpture, showcases Rodin's ability to capture the essence of human emotion.
• The Burghers of Calais (1884-1895), a powerful and moving sculpture, commemorates the suffering and sacrifice of six citizens of Calais during the Hundred Years' War.

**Museums and Collections**

Today, Rodin's works can be found in various museums around the world, including:

• Musée Rodin, Paris - Dedicated to showcasing Rodin's sculptures, drawings, and other works.
• WahooArt.com - Features a vast collection of Rodin's paintings and sculptures, including The Small Head of Jean de Fiennes with Hand.
• Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University, California - Houses several of Rodin's works, including Bust of Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse.

**Legacy**

Rodin's influence on modern sculpture is undeniable. His non-conformist approach to art has inspired generations of artists, cementing his place in the history of art. As a prominent figure in the development of modern sculpture, Rodin's legacy continues to be celebrated through his works, which can be found in museums and collections around the world. **Recommended Reading:** * Wikipedia.org: History of the nude in art * WahooArt.com: François Auguste René Rodin's Paintings and Sculptures * Wikipedia.org: Paris, City of Light