A Burgher of Calais (Jean d'Aire) Possibly 1889

"A Burgher of Calais (Jean d'Aire)" is a bronze sculpture by Auguste Rodin, completed possibly in 1889. This powerful sculpture depicts one of the six burghers of Calais, Jean d'Aire, who offered themselves as hostages to the English during the Hundred Years' War. Rodin captures the burgher’s solemn and determined countenance, his heavy cloak emphasizing his weighty responsibility. The sculpture is now part of The Art Institute of Chicago's permanent collection and represents the artist's exploration of realism and psychological depth in sculpture.