Rediscovered Bronze Sculpture by Camille Claudel Breaks Records at Auction
An extraordinary discovery has sent shockwaves through the art world, as a long-lost bronze sculpture by Camille Claudel has emerged from obscurity to fetch an astounding sum at auction.
Unearthed in a Forgotten Apartment
In the depths of an abandoned apartment at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, amidst layers of dust and draped in a forgotten cloth, lay a hidden treasure—the bronze version of Claudel’s celebrated sculpture, "L’Age mûr" ("The Mature Age"). For over fifteen years, the artwork had languished in obscurity, its existence unknown to the outside world.
A Chance Encounter
It was during an ordinary estate inventory on September 17 that auctioneer Matthieu Semont stumbled upon this remarkable find. As he lifted the sheet covering the sculpture, his heart skipped a beat. "I recognized it instantly," he later recounted. "It was more like a reunion than a discovery. It was magical. I shed tears."
A Long-Lost Masterpiece
"L’Age mûr" is widely considered one of Claudel’s most significant works. Created between 1892 and 1898, it depicts a cycle of life through three figures, including a young woman on her knees, embodying the sculptor’s tumultuous relationship with Auguste Rodin.
The sculpture was originally commissioned by the French government, but the order was later withdrawn. Despite this setback, Claudel continued to work on the piece, pouring her emotions and artistic expression into its creation.
An Auction of Unprecedented Excitement
Anticipation for the auction of "L’Age mûr" reached fever pitch, with art historians, collectors, and curious spectators from around the world flocking to Orléans to witness the event. After a tense bidding war that lasted over fifteen minutes, the final gavel fell at an astonishing 3.1 million euros (3,663,000 euros with fees), shattering all expectations.
The identity of the winning bidder remains undisclosed, but their acquisition marks a significant moment in art history. "We have nothing to be ashamed of," said Semont. "This sale makes it the second highest auction result for a work by Claudel. I’m relieved that everything went so well."
A Legacy of Passion and Creativity
Claudel’s life was marked by both brilliance and tragedy. As Rodin’s muse and collaborator, she broke barriers as a female artist, creating works of extraordinary emotion and intensity. "L’Age mûr" stands as a testament to her artistic prowess and the enduring power of her creative spirit.
The sculpture’s rediscovery and record-breaking sale not only sheds light on Claudel’s talent but also serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that can lie forgotten in the most unexpected of places. It is a testament to the resilience of art, the unwavering appreciation for beauty, and the enduring legacy of a remarkable artist.
