Bust of Honoré de Balzac 1892

Auguste Rodin sculpted this bronze bust of Honoré de Balzac; though undated, it resides here at the V&A. The patina evokes a dark, brooding presence, fitting for a literary titan. Observe Rodin's manipulation of form and texture. The rough, almost violent modelling of the hair and features stands in stark contrast to the smoother planes of the chest. This dichotomy speaks to Rodin's interest in revealing the inner turmoil of his subjects. The bust isn't just a representation but an interpretation. Consider the unfinished quality, which disrupts traditional notions of sculpture. Rodin’s focus was not on flawless representation but on capturing Balzac's essence: the intensity, the struggle, the creative genius. This raw expressiveness invites us to consider how Rodin challenged conventional sculptural practices, emphasizing process and psychological depth over mere imitation.