Rodin Museum or Musée Rodin is a famous museum in Paris, which is dedicated primarily to the works of the French sculptor, Auguste Rodin. Whether you are an art or history enthusiast, you must consider adding a tour to the museum to your list. The museum is a collection of artwork by the sculptor adorning the streets of Paris. There are thousands of iconic photographs, drawings, artworks, and sculptures at the museum. Before you plan your visit, you should be aware that the museum has two sites. The first it at the Hôtel Biron and surrounding grounds in central Paris, and second at at Rodin's old home, the Villa des Brillants at Meudon, Hauts-de-Seine. If you are on a tour to Paris, you must consider visiting the museum. Since millions of visitors visit Paris, it will be better to be aware of the best time to visit the Rodin Museum.
History Behind the Rodin Museum
Before we talk about the best time to visit the Rodin Museum, let us learn about the history and why you should visit the museum. The Musée Rodin building was originally a mansion known as Hôtel Peyrenc de Moras. After 1788, it was given to the tenants. Sculptor Auguste Rodin rented four rooms in 1908. In 1911, he took over the whole building, which is now popularly known as the Hôtel Biron. He donated his artwork and the palace to the French state, with the condition that the collections will be kept forever at the Hôtel Biron.
The museum has been renovated thrice and the last one took place in the year 2015. The museum showcases the entire journey of the artist and was reopened on the birthday of Auguste Rodin.
Why Should You Visit Rodin Museum?
The museum holds the largest collection of 7,000 drawings and more than 6,000 sculptures made by Rodin. He was also an art collector who curated several artworks in his entire life. You can explore the extensive collection of drawings, ceramics, photographs, paintings, and more. The collection comprises pieces from different parts of the world, including pieces from Italy, Egypt, Greece, and the Middle East. Some of the most-famous world art paintings by renowned artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and Pierre Auguste have been displayed at the museum. The museum was actually opened to the public in 1919. It is one of the only museums which has been dedicated specifically to a particular artist. However, it also features artwork by other artists.
The following are the most famous exhibits at the museum:
- The Thinker
- Ugolino
- Man with a Broken Nose
- Adam and Eve
- The Balzac
- The Age of Adam
- The Burghers of Calais
Best Time to Visit Rodin Museum
Rodin was a nature lover and the museum also features a garden. If you want to explore the signs of new blooms and appealing flowers, you must consider visiting during the Spring season, i.e., from March to May. During these months, you may also find some cheap hotel alternatives. Therefore, you can plan your visit during the summer.
Top Things to See Inside Rodin Museum
The following are the sculptures and artworks that you should not miss seeing at the museum:
- The Gates of Hell
- The Kiss
- The Thinker
- Fugit Amor
- Pere Tanguy
- Age of Maturity by Camilie Claudel
- The Waltz or The Waltzers
Tips for Visiting Rodin Museum
Here are certain things you must keep in mind before planning a trip to the museum:
- Avoid visiting on weekends as it might be busy.
- Book your tickets in advance to skip the lines and wait time.
- Read about Auguste Rodin to learn more about his contribution.
- The museum might not allow you to photograph every exhibit. For some of the exhibits, you might have to submit your cameras and mobile phones.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing so that you can walk around conveniently.
- You can call the authorities to know more about the permits related to cameras and mobile phones.
- Carry a small bag with essentials like snacks, a water bottle, and a jacket.
If you want a commercial photoshoot, you will need prior permission for that. You may also have to pay a small fee for that. These are some of the things you must keep in mind to plan your trip to the museum safely and properly. Stay tuned to Scott and Ben for more such guides and updates.