Along with Auguste Rodin and Aristide Maillol, French sculptor Émile-Antoine Bourdelle (1861–1929) is widely recognized as one of the fathers of modern sculpture. Bourdelle was born in Montauban in the south of France, and after studying sculpture at art school became an assistant to Rodin. After leaving Rodin’s studio, Bourdelle pursued his unique, well-ordered forms suggestive of associations with architectural elements, exhibiting prolifically and becoming a leading sculptor of the first half of the 20th century. Bourdelle and his work had a considerable impact on Japanese modern sculpture as well.

Organized with the full cooperation of the Musée Bourdelle, Paris, this exhibition brought together more than 120 works by Bourdelle, including his sculptures, paintings and drawings. His tour de force work, Héraklès archer (Hercules the Archer) and other major works such as the series of Ludwig van Beethoven heads and busts, highlighted from many angles the enduring appeal and power of this artist.

Exhibits :

• 123 works (75 sculptures, 48 drawings and dessins)

Catalogue texts :

• Colin Lemoine

Lender :

• Musée Bourdelle, Paris

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Antoine Bourdelle
Héraklès archer, grande étude, Bronze
© Musée Bourdelle, Paris, André Morin