The Burghers of Calais
by Auguste RODIN

The Burghers of Calais was commissioned from Rodin in 1884. The plaster model was exhibited in 1889, and the bronze monument unveiled in 1895. It commemorates the burghers of the town who sacrificed themselves to King Edward III in 1347 in order to raise the siege of the town. The movements of the figures vividly express their sense of despair at their imminent death.

Preview Picture Data Info
The Burghers of Calais
1884-95
Bronze, 231 x 245 x 200 cm
Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, Calais


The Burghers of Calais
1889
Coated plaster, 231 x 248 x 200 cm
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris


The Burghers of Calais (detail)
1889
Coated plaster
Musée Rodin, Paris



Summary of sculptures by Auguste Rodin
The Gates of Hell | The Burghers of Calais
Busts and monuments | Various sculptures



© Web Gallery of Art, created by Emil Krén and Daniel Marx.