Torso of Adèle

One of Rodin’s favourite models was Adèle Abbruzzesi, from whose supple,muscular body he drew inspiration for several strikingly sensual, female figures. Clay, which he modelled while standing in front of the sitter or which he pressed into a mould and later reworked, was the ideal material to use for a sketch, notably because of its capacity to evoke the velvety texture of the skin. With his virtuoso modelling skills, Rodin managed to convey the softness of a woman’s belly, her arched back and even the weight of her breasts.

The sculptor was very fond of this study, which he completed by adding legs and arms, so as to use it as a sort of linking device on the upper left-hand corner of The Gates of Hell . In a slightly modified version, with a head, this torso was also used for the female figure in Eternal Springtime.

THE ARTWORK IN THE MUSEUM

Permanent collections – ground floor, room 5

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