Jules Dalou (1838–1902)

Auguste Rodin|Alexis Rudier

modeled 1883, cast 1910 · Bronze · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Dalou was one of the most successful sculptors of public monuments in late nineteenth-century Paris. Here, Rodin has immortalized his friend by depicting him bare-chested in an ancient, heroic fashion. Dalou’s sharp features, tensed neck, and bony chest are subtly modeled to convey his austere character and pay tribute to his naturalistic style. Soon after creating the portrait, the two sculptors would end their long friendship with mutual hard feelings over the commissioning of a monument to Victor Hugo planned for the Panthéon.

Artist

Auguste Rodin|Alexis Rudier

Date

modeled 1883, cast 1910

Medium

Bronze

Culture

French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Thomas F. Ryan, 1910