Paris
Auguste Rodin (1840 - 1917) was to sculpture what Einstein was to physics - simply genius! One visit to the Musée Rodin and I am sure you will agree that I am not exaggerating.
Housed in a beautifully renovated 18th century mansion, the Musée Rodin was actually home to Auguste Rodin for the latter portion of his life. The mansion and its expansive gardens were of great inspiration to Rodin. A tour of the Musée takes visitors in chronological order through Rodin’s life and career.
Inside, you will discover not only the immense volume of work Rodin produced during his lifetime (we are talking thousands and thousands of sculptures, paintings, drawings and studio plasters) but a thorough understanding of his approach to design or the “method to his madness.” In addition, visitors are presented with a vast array of items Rodin collected during his travels as well as gifts from other artistic luminaries.
Musée Rodin also delves into Auguste Rodin’s drama filled love affair with his protege - Camille Claudel. An entire room is devoted to Claudel’s beautiful sculptures.
The architecture of the Musée Rodin, originally called the Hôtel Biron is really something to see. The foyer and main staircase, for instance, are real show stoppers. I’ve often tried to imagine what it must have been like to work and live in such an environment.
And the exterior area is definitely not a let down. In the spring you will find beautiful rose bushes scattered throughout the front gardens, in addition to original works sculpted by Rodin. The grand daddy being the sculpture entitled, The Gates of Hell. In the rear, visitors will love the expansive gardens - it’s almost like a park and not a small one at that.
After a tour of the Musée Rodin and a walk through the sculpture dotted gardens, sit and relax at the Le Café du Musée Rodin.
I really can’t say enough about the Musèe Rodin. The building, the sculptures, the outside gardens - all amazingly beautiful!
Musée Rodin
77 Rue de Varenne
Paris
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