The Rodin Museum is undoubtedly one of the famous museums in Paris. It houses the works of the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. On 4th August 2019, the museum celebrated its 100th birth anniversary.
The Beginning of the Museum
The Rodin Museum is housed in the building, which is presently known as the Biron Hotel. It was in 1908 that Rodin took four rooms on the ground floor of the building on rent to use them as his studios. By 1911 he rented the building fully and increased his working space. The French government in the same year bought the property in which the building stood. All the other occupants except for Rodin was sent away. Rodin got into a talk with the state and sought permission to use the space for displaying his works.
He gave the right over his works to the government and sought permission to stay at the Musée Rodin till the end of his life. The permission was granted in the year 1916, and the museum was opened to the public after two more years.
A Brief Sketch of Rodin’s Life
A person who studies the life of Rodin will understand that his fame and name did not come to him easily. He had to face many setbacks in his life. Many in the initial days overlooked his real talent. Many of his works like “The Age of Bronze” gained criticisms. It was in 1880 that Rodin was officially ordained to build the portal for a new museum. However, the project was left unfinished. His work “The Gates of Hell” became very famous. His famous works “The Thinker” and “The Kiss” were designed to be put on the gates. Nevertheless, it became singular sculpture pieces later.
Rodin, even when he faced criticism and setbacks in his life, continued his works. He was also successful in charming many women. He had Camille Claudel as his assistant for long years. She helped him in his sculpturing works. She was also an excellent sculptor. However, on a later stage, the two broke up and she ended her relationship with Rodin. She destroyed much of her works and later succumbed to death in a mental health center.
Rodin’s works are popular around the world today. They continue to amaze those who love artworks and sculptures. His legacy indeed continues even after a hundred years. If you are planning on a trip to Paris, you cannot miss seeing the works of Rodin displayed in the Biron Hotel and its surrounding area.