The Kiss (Rodin sculpture)

Rodin - Le Baiser 06

The Kiss is a renowned sculpture created by the French artist Auguste Rodin. Initially conceived in 1882, it was first exhibited in 1887. The sculpture is one of Rodin's most famous works and exemplifies his unique approach to Realism in art. It depicts a couple in a passionate embrace, showcasing Rodin's mastery in capturing human emotion and physicality in bronze and marble.

Background

The Kiss was originally part of a larger commission for a decorative door for the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, titled The Gates of Hell. Inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, the door was to feature panels depicting various scenes from the epic poem. The Kiss represented Paolo and Francesca, two lovers from Dante's Inferno, who were condemned to hell for their adulterous affair. However, Rodin eventually decided that the tender and intimate nature of The Kiss did not fit the theme of the door and removed it from the project.

Description

The sculpture stands at approximately 181.5 cm in height and is carved from marble. It portrays a nude man and woman locked in a passionate embrace. The figures are seated on a rock, with the man's hand gently resting on the woman's hip, drawing her closer, while she clasps his shoulder and leans back, surrendering to the kiss. The attention to detail in the figures' expressions and the realism of their bodies are characteristic of Rodin's work, demonstrating his ability to convey deep emotions through sculpture.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its public unveiling, The Kiss was met with both acclaim and controversy. Its explicit depiction of nudity and sensuality was groundbreaking for the time and challenged traditional norms of sculpture. Today, it is celebrated as a masterpiece of modern sculpture and a symbol of love and passion.

The original marble version of The Kiss is housed in the Musée Rodin in Paris, while several bronze casts can be found in museums and collections around the world, including the Tate Modern in London and the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia.

Influence

The Kiss has had a significant impact on both art and popular culture. It has inspired countless artists, writers, and filmmakers, becoming an iconic representation of romantic love. Its influence can be seen in various media, from paintings and sculptures to films and literature, where it continues to be referenced as a symbol of passion and desire.

See Also

• Auguste Rodin
• Rodin Museum
• Musée Rodin
• Realism (arts)
• Sculpture