Age of Bronze, Part II

The Thinker (1880, 11/12) by Auguste Rodin, overlooking Colorado Blvd

If The Thinker was originally designed as a figure surveying the damned at the Gates of Hell, then what does it signify that it will be overlooking Pasadena's Tournament of Roses Parade, proceeding to the Rose Bowl, along Colorado Blvd? Hmm. . .

Earlier, I promised some more photos of the Rodin sculptures at the Norton Simon Museum. The lighting conditions were not optimal, but I think a few turned out looking satisfactory.

Jean de Fiennes, Vetu (1884-95, 1/4) by Auguste Rodin

Saint John the Baptist (1878-80, 7/12) by Auguste Rodin

The sculptures have amazing facial expressiveness, revealing a depth of emotion, engaging the viewer with unvoiced questions.

The Age of Bronze

Monument to Honore de Balzac, first modelled 1897, cast in 1967 (9/12) by Auguste Rodin


Auguste Rodin was born on this day in 1840.

Los Angeles is lucky enough to house two significant collections of Rodin's sculptures: LACMA's Cantor Garden and the Norton Simon Museum. Additionally, Stanford University up in the Silicon Valley houses a superb collection that is well worth a long drive (or quick flight) and overnighting the weekend.

I'm so familiar with his works that I sometimes overlook them, passing them by without so much as a glace. The Thinker at the Norton Simon rarely receives a visit from me anymore. So, it's important to remember how awesome these works are.

The Thinker (1880, 11/12) by Auguste Rodin

Let's take a look at a few classic Rodin's and renew our appreciation for his genius.