The Head of Mrs. Russell

modeled ca. 1890, cast before 1912
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 800
This plaster cast of a study of Mariana Russell’s head is one of several works that Rodin donated to The Met in 1912. It resembles The Met's 1888 portrait in bronze (1986.37.3), and Rodin probably made it in preparation for one of the classicizing sculptures for which she modeled. The head’s straight alignment accentuates the angular features that the artist admired in his sitter, and its matte surface evokes a marble carving.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The Head of Mrs. Russell
  • Artist: Auguste Rodin (French, Paris 1840–1917 Meudon)
  • Date: modeled ca. 1890, cast before 1912
  • Culture: French
  • Medium: Cast plaster
  • Dimensions: Height (wt. confirmed): 10 7/8 in., 5.1 lb. (27.6 cm, 2.3 kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Gift of Auguste Rodin, 1912
  • Object Number: 12.12.6
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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