Auguste Rodin, The Age of Bronze (1876) – Museum Sculpture Replica, Parastone Collection

The Rodin Age of Bronze Statue is a masterpiece that forever changed the world of sculpture. When this artwork was exhibited in 1877, its lifelike details took the art community by storm. Critics could not believe the realism, and some accused Rodin of making life casts from his model. In truth, Rodin’s devotion to observing and sculpting the human form was unmatched. He broke away from the rigid artistic norms of the 19th century, defining a new era in modern sculpture.

This museum-quality reproduction belongs to the renowned Parastone Museum Collection. The statue reflects a man paused in a serene transformation. There is a subtle tension as the figure hovers between stillness and awakening—a moment magnified by every finely rendered muscle and thoughtful pose. As a small-scale museum sculpture replica, this piece channels the presence of the original “Age of Bronze.” Its power and quiet confidence have secured its place as a pillar of modern art.

• Faithful reproduction of Rodin’s The Age of Bronze (1876)
• Cast from durable resin, finished with a warm brown-bronze patina
• Dimensions: 9.25 in H × 3.5 in W × 2.75 in D
• Weight: about 1 lb
• Comes with a descriptive information card
• Belongs to the Parastone Museum Collection (RO18)

About the Artwork: Rodin Age of Bronze Statue and Its Meaning

Rodin sculpted The Age of Bronze after returning from Florence. He studied the Renaissance legends Donatello and Michelangelo and drew inspiration from their anatomical skills. Instead of chasing idealized forms, Rodin wanted to capture a living, breathing presence. The statue’s title gives you a glimpse into a mythical and defining age—where humankind first discovered self-awareness. This is not unlike learning the word of the day and suddenly recognizing something new and profound about life.

The Age of Bronze Statue shows this pivotal stage in human consciousness. With gentle motion and tender realism, the sculpture suggests a time on the verge of change. Rodin selected a young Belgian soldier, Auguste Neyt, as his model while residing in Brussels. The resulting figure was so authentic it triggered great controversy at the French Salon, but those doubts soon faded. Rodin’s skills were proven, and his reputation flourished. This moment marked him as the leading sculptor of his generation, an artist who helped define the new expressive realism of modern sculpture.

About the Artist: Auguste Rodin (1840–1917)

Auguste Rodin was never content with the perfection and formality of past centuries. His philosophy centered on truth and the essence of living beings. He famously said, “In everything I follow nature, and I never pretend to control her.” This definition of artistic honesty set him apart from the trends of Romanticism and Impressionism. Rodin believed art must show emotion, even at the risk of being misunderstood.

The Age of Bronze Statue stands as a testament to that vision. Through careful manipulation of texture and shadow, Rodin produced statues that appeared to pulse with life. His works were not static; they were emotional, raw, even vulnerable. This was especially true of pieces like The Thinker and The Kiss. His unique blend of feeling and form spurred a new movement in modern art, where empathy and observation were valued above idealization.

Rodin Age of Bronze Statue: Bridging the Classical and Modern

The emergence of the Rodin Age of Bronze Statue marked a turning point in sculpture’s history. Where others longed for ideal beauty, Rodin searched for universal truths. His technique was to let physical form reveal inner emotion. In the statue, the subtle turn of the torso and uplifted arm highlight humanity’s step toward consciousness—a theme often echoed in the word of the day, awakening.

The impact of Rodin’s approach grew far beyond his own studio. He inspired generations of artists—including Maillol and Brancusi—to see how the figure could express complex ideas. This work demonstrates the balance between ancient poise and contemporary psychological insight. Its honesty stands in contrast to the definition of narcissist, as the statue reaches outside itself rather than engaging in self-admiration.

The Parastone Reproduction: Art History in Your Home

Thanks to the Parastone Museum Collection, admirers can bring this achievement into their own space. Each resin cast is hand-finished with a warm bronze patina, echoing the tones of Rodin’s renowned original. This replica is both a tribute to French sculpture of the 19th century and a timeless reminder of humanity’s journey from stillness to awakening.

The Rodin Age of Bronze Statue continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its realism and emotional depth. It remains a cornerstone for those seeking art that challenges the definition of artistic excellence. By owning this piece, you connect with a period when sculpture began to speak directly to the soul, telling the story of humankind’s first steps into awareness.