« I give to the State all of my works : plaster, marble, bronze, stone, and my drawings as well as my collection of antiques which I have been pleased to gather for the training and education of artists and workers. And I ask the State to keep all these collections within the Hôtel Biron, which will be the Rodin museum, and where I reserve the right to live all my life. »

Auguste Rodin

It is in these termes that Rodin donated his work to the French State and allowed the creation of the Rodin museum.

The museum, by becoming heir of the sculptor, is charged to publish original editions of bronzes from the collection of molds and original models bequeathed by the artist. These original editions of bronzes, limited to twelve, are cast in strict compliance with the law and under control of the museum scientific staff.

The sale of the original bronzes editions contributes to the museum's financial autonomy as it is the only French national museum to be entirely self-financing. The museum also holds moral rights thus it oversees the image and respect for the work.

Rodin and Camille Claudel
Chronology of Auguste Rodin
Official Reproductions