In 1898, Auguste Rodin can finally publicly exhibit the Kiss, an artwork created in 1882, at the Salon of the Beaux Arts. The lovers represent Paolo and Francesca da Rimini who died from their illicit passion.

Rodin's comment is based on his quote “the artist must be ready to be consumed by the fire of his own creation”.

Claude Monet and Rodin shared a mutual admiration and Monet wrote the preface to the catalogue of Rodin solo show in 1900 “what I am anxious to affirm is my great admiration for this unique man of our time; he is great among the greats. The exhibition of his works will be an event. Its success is certain and it will be the definitive consecration of the excellent artist.”

​Gustav Klimt knew Rodin who was a major star of the art world and they finally met in 1902. They had different medium and styles but they shared a same vision and both were innovators, passionate about women.

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Sources: Musee-rodin.fr  - Rodin artistic testament, 1911

Klimt, Ilona Sarmany-Parsons. 1988