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In art, the human figure is one of the oldest subjects known to man. From the earliest instance of cave painting, to the Classical, Renaissance, Gothic, and the Modern, this particular theme of the human figure, especially the nude, has been with us throughout history.
In the Renaissance, such old masters like Michelangelo, drew inspiration from the early works of the Greeks, who were inclined to create direct from nature. In his works you have a sense of his admiration for the Greeks and their masterpieces.
Upon return from Italy, the young Rodin was awe-struck at the great works he observed from the master, Michelangelo. With that, he brought us incredible works such as The Thinker, The Kiss, and Victor Hugo and the Muses. His less-known works, such as the nude torso - these figures without arms, heads, and legs - are endowed with a sense of mystery. And all one needs is imagination to complete the figure. Indeed a great work of art needs...mystery.
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