Three views of a mask 1898

Auguste Rodin, working in France, produced these three views of a mask that invite us to consider the many faces of emotion and representation. Rodin was fascinated by the human form and its capacity to express a wide range of emotions. Here, he presents a mask in three different perspectives, each capturing a distinct facet of the figure's emotional state. The mask itself is reminiscent of ancient theatrical masks, linking Rodin's work to classical traditions. But Rodin was working at a time of rapid social and political change. The Third Republic was taking shape. The rise of industrialization and urbanization brought new social challenges and anxieties. Rodin sought to capture the raw, unfiltered essence of human experience. As historians, we might look to the cultural and intellectual currents of Rodin's time to better understand his artistic choices. We might examine his relationship with institutions such as the Salon and the Académie des Beaux-Arts. These were important venues for the display and validation of art.