For which international exhibition was Auguste Rodin’s Kiss Sculpture created?
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Auguste Rodin’s sculpture The Kiss, one of his most famous works, was created for the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1889. This international exhibition, which celebrated the centenary of the French Revolution and marked the modernity of the time, attracted millions of visitors from all over the world. Auguste Rodin, already famous for his expressive, realistic style, presented The Kiss against a backdrop of art and technological innovation.
Originally, this monumental sculpture was to form part of Auguste Rodin’s great unfinished project, The Gates of Hell, inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy. The scene depicts Paolo and Francesca, two tragic lovers from Dante’s famous text. Their forbidden passion has condemned them to wander together in hell. Auguste Rodin decided, however, to detach The Kiss from The Gates of Hell and elevate it to the status of an autonomous work because of its theme of universal love.
The sensuality and delicacy of the sculpture made a lasting impression, and The Kiss became a symbol of romantic passion. After its exhibition, it enjoyed immense success, leading to the creation of several marble and bronze versions, exhibited in museums around the world. Today, the work is widely associated with Auguste Rodin’s virtuosity and ability to capture human emotions in striking detail.
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For which international exhibition was Auguste Rodin's Kiss Sculpture created?
Answer
Auguste Rodin's sculpture The Kiss was originally created for the 1889 Paris World's Fair, where it was exhibited in the artist's pavilion.