Could there be anything more satisfying other than finding a quiet spot in the middle of a busy town? Recently, for me, that place was The Rodin Museum in Paris. Located at 77 rue de Varenne, 75007, this museum has a unique feature: it does not just exhibit Rodin’s famous artworks, but it lets you escape Paris’s busy city and allows you to immerse into the life of an artist.
It was like finding a bubble of peace in the middle of a creative storm and I want to share all my excitement with you!
The First Impression: Exiting out of the Rodin Museum
As I got closer to Musée Rodin, such feelings of excitement and uncertainty came over me. I was unable to hold my enthusiasm because at first glance, it looked vastly different from many of the other entertainment options and art displays that Paris had to offer.
Housed in the 18th-century Hôtel Biron, which is also a museum today, it felt almost like you were being granted a glimpse inside the life of an artist. The first room of the house, with its opulent architecture, was spine-tingling. Even then I got the impression that I was about to embark on a spell-binding journey filled with art.
Upon walking in, I immediately felt a tranquil atmosphere. Rodin’s major creations in the form of drawings, sculptures, and even pieces of his belongings are distributed over the rooms.
The real beauty of the experience was in the design of the space. It was not just about looking at the works of art but also about how Rodin’s masterpieces matured over the years with the vast sky of his creative mind.
A Simple Guide to the Museum of Rodin’s on How and What to Explore
Before immersing in the creations, one should first learn something about the person who made it, Auguste Rodin. Rodin’s status cut him off from tradition, including him within the range of the most progressive sculptors of his epoch who created in the core of the writhing unnatural forms.
He created sculpture that spoke of humanity – in its pieces, rough and unrefined and even in the expressions that were forever immortalized in bronze and stone.
The museum of course was commissioned in 1919 which contained not only Rodin’s sculptures but also works of Camille Claudel, a student and mistress of Rodin. The garden surrounding the area is quiet and a nice place to hide within the urban sprawl, and it appears to be a part of his artwork – organized but uncontrollable, with figures growing from the terrain.
Highlighting 7 Of The Most Valuable Sculptures At The Rodin Museum
To summarize my experiences of the day, there were particular great works that caught my attention and in this case are sculptures. These pieces of artwork left me speechless, not only because they are remarkable works of art but also because of the narratives that they embody and how the stories are incorporated in the journey of Rodin.
The Thinker
I have always wanted to look at this basic sculpture in detail, and it was indeed the most impressive one. Positioned within the Rodin Garden, which has beautiful and natural surroundings, I actually had the sense that The Thinker was right in front of me looking deep into the wonders of the cosmos. I was mesmerized by his powerful physique and tense look around.
The Gates of Hell
The emotional response brought by Rodin’s Gates of Hell was incredible. This particular work is influenced by Dante’s Inferno and is quite detailed.
Content based on the vision that despite chaos there is beauty because the figures are visually suffering. It seemed like staring at the inner world of the creator’s mind which really brings forth his depictions of evil and depth.
The Kiss
The Kiss, a piece created by Rodin, is an exquisite representation of lovers who have embraced shockingly in the stone. It was incredible to watch how Rodin blended the coldness and solidity of pieces into a soft-fluffy moment.
This sculpture is perfectly complemented by its location; it is located in a partitioned space at the museum’s light-bearing gallery.
Balzac
This great statue of the writer Honoré de Balzac is incredible and very impressive. In his work, Rodin depicted the author in the way that he believed this man would look, including the author’s physical body and the zeal that he gave for his work. He was big in all respects but made an impression primarily aggressive.
The Burghers of Calais
This sculpture expresses the commemorative character of six citizens who suffered heroically during the Hundred Years’ War and it was sad to observe it from such a close distance.
The anguish and determination on the faces of the figures speaks of bravery and suffering all at once.
The Cathedral
The name of the sculpture reaches out to me desperately because it should denote the feel of a large structure. It is called The Cathedral. As indicated in its description, it is simple, delicate, and possesses a certain femininity that grabs my attention.
The Walking Man
The Walking Man, unlike many Rodin’s finished pieces, was left purposely unfinished. The figure’s torso protrudes, but there is enough torso to have suggestive movement. For instance, this is a piece that one will ponder over long after leaving the exhibition.
Tips for Visiting the Museum and Gardens
Located at 77 rue de Varenne, Paris, the Rodin Museum is interesting for both art enthusiasts and the ordinary tourist. The cost of entry is affordable, around €13 for adults, and free for children and young people under 18. You can only go to the Rodin Garden, which is also cheaper but houses various masterpieces, including The Thinker, outdoors.
Where to Stay Near the Rodin Museum
Then have a look at this museum while taking a day off. It is a safe call to reserve a room nearby, wouldn’t you say? I’d suggest that you consider Hotel Varenne, a very nice boutique that is a minute away from the museum. The warm and friendly feeling with the garden views adds to the tranquil feeling when experiencing Rodin.
For something more rich, the Le Cinq Codet provides cool, comfy, modern, and stylish rooms with a rooftop that has a great view of the stunning city—ideal for resting after a long day of art viewing.
Dining Options: Where to Eat After Your Museum Visit
After visiting the Rodin Museum and the gardens, one could build quite the spark in their stomach. To experience the most authentic taste of Paris cuisine, go to Café de Flore.
Just a stroll away and I recommend this café because it is one of the oldest overcrowded with the likes of Pablo Picasso or Simone de Beauvoir. I had a plain yet tasty croque-monsieur along with a decent glass of wine.
If you are on a budget, Le Pain Quotidien is the place for you. Ideal for a fast lunch, it provides multiple alternatives including organic, freshly prepared sandwiches and pastries. The patio also allows you to enjoy the amazing ambiance of Paris.
Getting There: How Do You Go about Getting to the Rodin Museum?
Visiting the Musée Rodin is simple owing to the extensive public transport system in the French capital. The Varenne Metro Station (line 13) serves as one of the closest stations, which is about a 10-minute walk from the museum.
Also, public transport terminals like bus 69 also serve the area just a few stops from the museum. It is not recommended to hire a car as the museum is located in the central region but if you need to, there are some reasonably close parking places but prices may vary and can be confusing.
Best Time to Visit the Rodin Museum
A visit to the Rodin Museum is best enjoyed in the spring or in the early fall due to milder weather and the fully blooming garden. I went in May when temperatures were warm but not hot and there were mild winds, which was perfect for strolling around the Rodin Garden.
Additionally, it is less frequented compared to the summer vacations so you can relax while you admire the attractions.
Why the Rodin Museum is a Sight Worth Seeing in Paris
Visiting The Rodin Museum has been an eye-opening experience that I would recommend to anyone traveling through the tourist hotspots of Paris. Whether you love art or just want to see a less populated corner of the city, this museum has something unique to offer.
It is impossible to forget this exposure when there are vast historical spaces, creative masterpieces, and tranquil surroundings all in one location.
Therefore, the next time you are going on another holiday trip to Paris, do not forget to take time out for the Musée Rodin. Go on, this is one time you will not want to miss.
