Antoine Bourdelle

Antoine Bourdelle (1861-1929) was a French sculptor and teacher, known for his monumental public sculptures and expressive use of bronze and marble. Born in Montauban, Bourdelle initially studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Toulouse before moving to Paris to work under Auguste Rodin. He later broke away from Rodin's influence to develop his own style, which was characterized by a more classical approach to form and a focus on the expressive potential of the human figure.

Bourdelle's work often dealt with mythological and historical subjects, and he was particularly interested in the themes of heroism and human struggle. Some of his most famous works include Hercules the Archer, The Monument to General Alvear, and The Monument to Adam Mickiewicz. Bourdelle's sculptures are notable for their dynamic compositions and the sense of movement and tension they convey.

In addition to his work as a sculptor, Bourdelle was also an influential teacher at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris, where he taught many important artists of the 20th century, including Alberto Giacometti and Aristide Maillol. His studio in Paris has been preserved as the Musée Bourdelle, which houses a large collection of his works and personal artifacts. Bourdelle's legacy as a sculptor and teacher has had a lasting impact on the development of modern sculpture.