Jeune Femme et Enfant (Young Woman and Child), detail from 'The Gates of Hell'
Sculpture; freestanding bust or fragment • Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917)
Style & Movement
Impressionist Sculpture / Symbolism
Medium & Technique
Plaster or Marble (likely plaster based on uniform matte texture); lost-wax casting or additive modeling technique
Creation Period
Original conception circa 1880-1890; this specific cast or carving likely late 19th or early 20th century
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-25 inches in height; Portrait orientation (fragmentary bust)
Subject Description
A close-up study of a female figure and a smaller child-like head, characterized by the 'non-finito' (unfinished) style. The composition reflects the torment and fluid motion found in Rodin's monumental 'Gates of Hell' project, emphasizing raw emotion and physical tension.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (Pending professional inspection); notable for its intentional rough texture and fragmented limbs typical of Rodin's aesthetic.
Estimated Market Value
$50,000 - $150,000 (Highly dependent on casting date and foundry marks)
Auction Estimate
$40,000 - $120,000
Provenance History
Likely sourced from a French foundry (such as Alexis Rudier) or a private collection specializing in late 19th-century European sculpture.
Art Historical Significance
Highly significant as a components of 'The Gates of Hell,' which served as the creative reservoir for Rodin's most famous works (The Thinker, The Kiss). It illustrates Rodin's transition from traditional classicism to modern emotional expression through fragmented forms.
Notable Features
The distinctive 'severed' arm and the deeply gouged facial features are hallmark characteristics of Rodin's hand. If authentic, look for a signature 'A. Rodin' and a foundry stamp on the base or reverse.
Condition Issues
Visible surface irregularities which appear intentional; minor surface abrasions and dust accumulation in the crevices indicate age and handling.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a climate-controlled environment with low humidity (40-50%). Avoid direct handling without gloves; light dusting with a soft-bristled brush is recommended. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
Collector Notes
Rodin