This well known sculpture represents the lovers Paolo and Francesca and, like many of Rodin's other works of Dantesque inspiration, grew out of a project for the 'Gates of Hell'.
There are three marbles in all. The first is now in the Musee Rodin in Paris. The second belongs to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptothek, Copenhagen.
The one for the Tate was the only one remaining in private possession, and, in the opinion of Rodin himself, the finest version. It was executed, like the others, not by Rodin himself but by Italian workmen under his immediate supervision. It was purchased after the Tate launched a public campaign.
More information
Title of artwork, date
The Kiss (Le Baiser), 1901-1904
Date supported
1953
Medium and material
Marble
Dimensions
182 cm
Grant
2,000
Total cost
7,500
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