Key Points to Remember
A rare bronze reproduction of Camille Claudel's The Age of Maturity has been discovered in an abandoned Paris apartment.
The sculpture could fetch between $1.5 million and $2 million at auction, potentially setting a record for the artist in France.
This is one of only four replicas of The Age of Maturity , the others already being preserved in museums.
Historic discovery in an abandoned Parisian apartment
A remarkable sculpture by French artist Camille Claudel has been discovered in an abandoned Paris apartment. The piece, titled The Age of Maturity , had been hidden for more than 15 years under a cloth, remaining intact despite the passage of time.
This sculpture is one of four made by Claudel in 1907, although some sources also mention replicas created later. The assistance of Eugène Blot, a famous foundry owner, was crucial in its creation.
Experts from Cabinet Lacroix-Jeannest have confirmed the authenticity of the work. The discovery has sparked great enthusiasm in the art world. The sculpture will soon be put up for auction, and estimates predict a sale price of between $1.5 million and $2 million. If it reaches this sum, it will become the most expensive work by Camille Claudel ever sold in France.
Camille Claudel and the work The Age of Maturity
Camille Claudel, born into a wealthy family in Aisne, France, became a famous sculptor in the late 19th century. A student and muse of Auguste Rodin, her career was often overshadowed by this tumultuous relationship. However, her talent was undeniable, and her works marked the history of French sculpture. The sculpture remained hidden for over a century.
Claudel's work has been celebrated in prestigious museums such as the Getty Museum in Los Angeles and the Art Institute of Chicago. His reputation as a key figure in French sculpture is once again highlighted thanks to this rediscovery. An exhibition at the National Gallery in Berlin is also planned for 2025 to honor his work.
The Legacy and Struggles of Camille Claudel
Camille Claudel's life reflects the difficulties faced by women artists during her time. Interned by her family, she died in obscurity, leaving behind a career that was cut short too soon. Some scholars believe that her internment was unjustified, as her mental state was poorly understood at the time.
"Claudel's artistic struggles were closely linked to the gender prejudices she faced in the art world."
According to John Walker in Art and Artists On Screen (2010), Claudel's problems were as much about gender bias as they were about the difficulties of the art market. Her expressive style stood out in a world dominated by conservative expectations.
The rediscovery of L'Âge de la maturity has revived interest in Claudel's work and tumultuous life. This event is a unique opportunity to reassess her importance in the history of art and to offer belated recognition to an exceptional artist.
Jean Dubreil