A small marble sculpture titled “Despair,” long thought to be a copy of a work by French sculptor Auguste Rodin, has been confirmed as an original and sold at auction for nearly one million dollars. The sculpture depicts a woman hugging her knees with her arms and holding one foot, and is part of Rodin’s work on the “Gates of Hell.” The family who owned the sculpture contacted an auctioneer who confirmed the artwork’s authenticity. This discovery is considered extremely rare and significant in the art world. Rodin worked on the “Gates of Hell” for nearly 37 years, and the sculpture “Despair” conveys sorrow and despair, inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the cultural and artistic significance of the discovery, highlighting the importance of preserving and recognizing original artworks. They focus on the human story behind the sculpture, the emotional depth of Rodin’s work, and the value of art in society beyond monetary terms.
Center: Center-leaning reports provide a balanced view, focusing on the factual details of the discovery, the auction sale, and the historical context of Rodin’s work. They highlight the rarity and authenticity confirmation process, presenting the news as a significant cultural event without strong ideological framing.
Right: Right-leaning outlets may emphasize the financial aspect of the auction, the value of art as an investment, and the prestige associated with owning such rare pieces. They might also highlight the role of private collectors and the art market, framing the discovery as a success story of private initiative and expertise.
