The Man with a Broken Nose

Originally produced in 1864, this work reflected the world-weary face of a poor man nicknamed Bibi, who lived in Rodin’s neighbourhood. But that year the winter had been harsh, the head of clay froze, split and the entire black part shattered. Once the head was completed anew, the hair redone in the manner of Greek philosophers, the work was carved in marble and assumed the air of a Socrates with the impact of an antique bust. Its exhibition at the Salon of 1875 constituted Rodin’s first real victory.