Rodin | Nelson Atkins

Rodin: Sculptures from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation

Admission is free.

Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917) was one of the most influential sculptors of the 19th century. His innovative modeling technique and unconventional, often provocative subject matter earned him praise as the greatest sculptor since Michelangelo. Going against academic tradition, Rodin created highly expressive sculptures of the human body in his quest to convey such universal emotions as love, longing, reverie and despair.

This exhibition brings together magnificent Rodin bronzes from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, which aims to promote understanding and appreciation of the artist’s achievements.

In addition to highlighting Rodin’s unrivaled capacity to capture the human spirit in all its nuances, the exhibition also highlights his pioneering studio practices. Working in plaster and wax, Rodin created models that he would fragment, multiply, recombine, enlarge and reduce. This unorthodox working method allowed the artist to produce a startling range of sculptural effects, examples of which are on display.

Head of Shade with Two Hands by Auguste Rodin — Auguste Rodin (French, 1840–1917). *Head of Shade with Two Hands*, modeled ca. 1910. Cast 2, edition size and date unknown, Bronze, 7 5/8 x 10 3/4 x 8 1/8 inches. Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation.

This exhibition is supported by the Donald J. Hall Initiative.