Auguste Rodin - Thomas Fortune Ryan, bronze, Europe

Born in Paris, Rodin showed an early talent for drawing. He attended the École des Arts Décoratifs and later the École des Beaux-Arts, but was dissatisfied with the traditional methods of sculpture taught there. Instead, he sought inspiration from the works of Michelangelo and Donatello, as well as the naturalism of the Romantic movement. Rodin's sculptures were characterised by their expressiveness and focus on the human form. He often depicted his subjects in motion or in moments of intense emotion, such as his famous sculpture The Thinker. Rodin was also known for his use of rough surfaces and unfinished textures, which gave his sculptures a sense of raw vitality. Despite his revolutionary approach to sculpture, Rodin faced criticism from the art establishment throughout his career. His work was initially rejected by the Salon, the official art exhibition of the French Academy, and he struggled to find patrons who would support his unconventional style. By the turn of the century, however, Rodin had become one of Europe's most celebrated artists, and his influence on modern sculpture cannot be overstated. Today, Rodin's sculptures can be found in museums and public spaces around the world, including the Musée Rodin in Paris and the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia. His legacy continues to inspire sculptors and artists of all kinds.

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