Rodin, often regarded as the father of modern sculpture, created some of the most iconic and influential works in art history. His masterpieces, such as The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Gates of Hell, remain symbols of artistic genius to this day. But when it comes to owning a Rodin sculpture, there is a stark difference in value between the original pieces and their reproductions.
In this blog, we’ll explore the world of Rodin’s original sculptures and their astonishing sale prices, examine the market for reproductions, and discuss how quality reproductions can bring the beauty of Rodin into your own space.
The Price of Original Rodin Sculptures
The Thinker (Le Penseur)
One of Rodin’s most famous sculptures, The Thinker, has seen extraordinary auction results. For example, a bronze cast of The Thinker sold in 2013 for $15.3 million at Sotheby’s. This wasn’t even the only version—Rodin authorized several casts during his lifetime, making each one highly valuable.
The Kiss (Le Baiser)
Another masterpiece from The Gates of Hell, The Kiss depicts a romantic moment with fluid, naturalistic forms. A lifetime bronze cast of The Kiss fetched $6.8 million at a Christie’s auction in 2000, though prices for larger or rarer casts can exceed $10 million.
Eternal Springtime (L’Éternel Printemps)
This romantic and dynamic sculpture is another sought-after piece. a bronze version sold at Sotheby’s New York for a record-breaking $20.4 million, setting the highest auction price for a Rodin work.
The Burghers of Calais (Les Bourgeois de Calais )
This monumental bronze group, completed in 1889, is a public commission depicting six figures in a moment of sacrifice. While complete sets are rarely auctioned, individual figures or smaller casts have sold for $2 million to $5 million, depending on the edition and foundry.
The Gates of Hell (La Porte de l’Enfer)
This monumental work, which includes The Thinker and The Three Shades, is a masterpiece in itself. While no complete cast has been sold recently, individual figures from The Gates of Hell can command millions.
These prices reflect the premium placed on Rodin’s original works, particularly those cast under his supervision or in limited editions. Factors such as material (marble or bronze), size, and provenance significantly influence their market value.
The Price of Rodin Reproductions
For art lovers who admire Rodin’s work but cannot afford the multimillion-dollar price tags, reproductions provide an accessible alternative. The value of reproductions varies greatly depending on factors such as material, size, and craftsmanship.
The Thinker (Le Penseur)
Bronze Reproduction: Life-size bronze replicas of The Thinker (approximately 73 inches tall, including base) are crafted using the lost-wax casting process to capture Rodin’s intricate detailing. These reproductions typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the foundry’s reputation and the quality of the patina. High-end versions with hand-applied finishes may approach $20,000.
Marble Reproduction: Marble replicas, carved to replicate the smooth surfaces and expressive forms of Rodin’s original, range from $10,000 to $30,000. The price varies based on the quality of the marble and the craftsmanship of the sculptors. These are ideal for indoor or garden displays, offering a classical aesthetic.
The Kiss (Le Baiser)
Bronze Reproduction: Life-size bronze replicas (approximately 71 inches tall) are available for $7,000 to $20,000. These reproductions emphasize the smooth curves and emotional intensity of the original, with prices reflecting the complexity of casting and finishing.
Marble Reproduction: Marble versions, meticulously carved to highlight the sculpture’s sensual forms, typically cost $12,000 to $35,000. The higher price accounts for the labor-intensive process of hand-carving premium marble to life-size proportions.
Eternal Springtime (L’Éternel Printemps)
Bronze Reproduction: Life-size bronze replicas (approximately 65 inches tall) range from $6,000 to $18,000. These reproductions capture the flowing lines and emotional depth of the original, with costs varying based on casting quality and patina.
Marble Reproduction: Marble replicas, crafted to reflect the sculpture’s delicate curves, are priced between $15,000 and $40,000. The price depends on the marble’s quality and the intricacy of the carving process.
Les Bourgeois de Calais (The Burghers of Calais)
Bronze Reproduction: Life-size bronze replicas of individual figures (approximately 78 inches tall) cost $8,000 to $25,000 per figure. A full set of six figures, if commissioned, could range from $40,000 to $100,000, depending on the foundry and customization.
Marble Reproduction: Marble replicas of individual figures are priced between $20,000 and $50,000 each, reflecting the labor-intensive carving process and the high-quality marble required for life-size works.
The Gates of Hell (La Porte de l’Enfer)
Bronze Reproduction: A life-size bronze reproduction of the full Gates of Hell (approximately 20 feet tall) is a significant undertaking, costing $50,000 to $100,000 due to its scale and complexity.
Marble Reproduction: Marble reproductions of the full Gates of Hell or its components are priced between $20,000 and $70,000, depending on the section replicated and the quality of the marble. These are often custom-ordered for large installations.
Smaller Replicas
For collectors on a budget, smaller replicas made of resin or other materials are available for $100–$1,000. While these lack the authenticity of bronze or marble, they still capture the spirit of Rodin’s work.
For those seeking to own a piece of Rodin’s legacy, our factory specializes in producing high-quality reproductions of his iconic sculptures.
While the originals remain treasures of the art world, our reproductions allow you to enjoy the beauty and emotion of Rodin’s work in your own space—at a fraction of the cost.
