The Kiss (Le Baiser)
Sculpture in the round • Auguste Rodin (French, 1840–1917)
Style & Movement
Modernism / Symbolism / Impressionist Sculpture
Medium & Technique
Pentelic or Carrara Marble; subtractive carving technique utilizing pointing and hand-finishing
Creation Period
Original marble conceived c. 1882; large-scale marble versions dates ranging from 1887 to early 20th century
Dimensions & Format
Life-size or over life-size (Approx. 181.5 cm × 112.5 cm × 117 cm for standard full-scale versions)
Subject Description
The sculpture depicts the illicit lovers Paolo Malatesta and Francesca da Rimini from Dante's 'Inferno'. The figures are locked in an eternal embrace, though their lips do not quite touch. The composition features smooth, idealized skin textures contrasting against the rough-hewn 'non-finito' base of the rock.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent - The marble surface appears well-preserved with characteristic soft patina and crisp detail in the anatomical modeling.
Estimated Market Value
$10,000,000 - $25,000,000 (for an authenticated period marble); unique posthumous or small editions vary greatly.
Auction Estimate
$8,000,000 - $15,000,000 (for high-quality period reductions or documented casts)
Provenance History
Commissioned originally by the French State in 1887; major versions are held in the Musée Rodin (Paris), Tate (London), and Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (Copenhagen). Private casts/versions require documentation via the Comité Rodin.
Art Historical Significance
A fundamental masterpiece of modern sculpture. Originally intended for 'The Gates of Hell', it was removed because its eroticism and joy contrasted too sharply with the theme of suffering. It represents Rodin's break from academic tradition through expressive realism and emotional depth.
Notable Features
The contrast between the highly finished, luminous flesh and the rugged, unfinished base is a hallmark of Rodin's style, emphasizing the emergence of the spirit from raw matter.
Condition Issues
Potential for minor surface abrasions, environmental staining (if exposed to pollution), or micro-cracking common in aged marble; no major structural losses visible.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain stable humidity and temperature; periodic professional cleaning by an art conservator using pH-neutral methods; avoid acidic skin oil contact (handling with gloves).