The Falling Man (L'Homme qui tombe)
Sculpture, free-standing • Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917)
Style & Movement
Modern Sculpture, Impressionist and Symbolist influences
Medium & Technique
Bronze with dark brown and green patina; created using the lost-wax casting (cire perdue) process, characterized by expressive modeling and tactile surface texture
Creation Period
Conceived c. 1882; this specific cast likely late 19th or early 20th century
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 60 x 60 x 30 cm (23.6 x 23.6 x 11.8 in); vertical format with dynamic diagonal axes
Subject Description
A nude male figure in an extreme, arched contrapposto position, appearing to plummet or recoil. It was originally designed for the upper left part of 'The Gates of Hell' and also appears on the 'Crouching Woman' to form 'Je Suis Belle'. The figure embodies existential despair and physical tension through exaggerated musculature.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the patina appears well-preserved with characteristic oxidation consistent with museum-quality maintenance
Estimated Market Value
$500,000 - $1,200,000 USD (depending on cast date and foundry mark)
Auction Estimate
$400,000 - $800,000 USD
Provenance History
Originally from the collection of the Musée Rodin or authorized foundries (Rudier, Alexis or Georges); likely passed through major private collections or public institutions
Art Historical Significance
A pivotal work illustrating Rodin's practice of 'assemblage' and reusing figures across different compositions. It represents the break from neoclassical perfection toward modern psychological realism and the expressiveness of the human form in distress.
Notable Features
Features the distinctive 'non-finito' rough modeling of the face and hands typical of Rodin's mature style; strong evidence of the artist's thumbprints in the original clay model preserved in the bronze cast.
Condition Issues
Minor surface wear consistent with age; possible light dusting or fingerprints on highlights; no structural integrity issues observed
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with humidity below 50%; handle only with lint-free cotton gloves to avoid acid transfer; annual inspection of wax coating