Aigle (?) sur un socle

1904–1912

An affair with the Marquise de Choiseul

The ageing Rodin's infatuations were brief, except for his affair with the French-American Marquise (later Duchess) de Choiseul, which lasted from 1904 to 1912. Later he called her an “evil genius” on whom he had spent seven years of his life.

1912–1917

The photographer Pyotr Shumov

In 1912–1917 the Russian-French photographer Pyotr Shumov worked closely with Rodin, photographing about 150 of his works and about 60 portraits and scenes from the sculptor's life.

1914

A gift to Britain

Encouraged by the enthusiasm of British artists, students and high society for his art, Rodin donated a selection of his works to the nation in 1914.

1914

“The Cathedrals of France” is published

Rodin's long love of medieval cathedrals found its way into a book. The art historian Bernard Champigneulle noted that, without architectural training, he showed a superb intuitive grasp of Gothic architecture, though his prose is heavy going.

1914–1915

Trips to Rome for the bust of Benedict XV

In 1914 and 1915 Rodin travelled to Rome to make a bust of Pope Benedict XV.

1916

His will leaves everything to the state

Rodin signed a will under which all his works and manuscripts passed to the state; the Musée Rodin was established on 22 December 1916, in the sculptor's lifetime.