Musee Rodin (Rodin Museum), Paris (must see)

The Rodin Museum in Paris, established in 1919, is dedicated to the works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. It is situated in the elegant 18th-century mansion called Hôtel Biron, which the sculptor used as his workshop from 1908. Rodin bequeathed his comprehensive collection of sculptures, alongside notable paintings by Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir to the French State under the condition that his workshop be transformed into a museum showcasing his artistry.

The museum is home to over 6,600 sculptures, including prominent pieces like The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Gates of Hell, many of which are displayed within its extensive garden. The outside garden itself, spanning over three hectares, is an integral part of the museum experience and features a variety of Rodin’s famous sculptures set against a backdrop of natural scenery. Just behind the museum, there's a casual restaurant and a small lake, plus an open area with benches, a café, and an ice-cream parlor.

Renowned for his unique ability to mold clay, Rodin went down in history not only as a sculptor but also as a painter, engraver, and collector. Attesting to this are 8,000 drawings that reflect a range of styles from landscape observations to fantastical works influenced by literary figures like Dante and Baudelaire. The collection also encompasses 7,000 old photographs that Rodin himself collected, showcasing his deep interest in photography as both a science and an art. These photographs serve as a historical archive of Rodin’s creative process and personal interests.

Additionally, the museum honors Camille Claudel, Rodin’s student, collaborator, and lover, with a dedicated room displaying her works, including The Mature Age and The Waltz, among others, capturing their tumultuous relationship and her artistic journey.

Rodin’s legacy is further highlighted through his vast collection of ancient and Eastern art, accumulated over the last two decades of his life, displayed amidst his own creations, signifying his appreciation and inspiration drawn from global art traditions.

While celebrating Rodin’s artistic contributions, the museum also engages with contemporary art through temporary exhibitions, hosting works by modern artists and organizing events that connect the historical with the contemporary.

The entrance fee is reasonable and not likely to break anyone's bank, so you can go and appreciate art from a whole new perspective while enjoying the Parisian weather.

Tip:
Do stop in the entry garden to pose for cheesy photos of yourself looking pensive next to the massive statue of The Thinker!

Regular Hours:
Wednesday-Monday: 10 am-5 pm
Closed Tuesdays, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas

Garden Bar Hours:
Thursday–Sunday: 3–8 pm (July 5–August 25); Saturday, Sunday: 3–8 pm (September 8–29);
Closed July 25, August 31–September 2, September 7