The Burghers of Calais
2018 © Maxim Tabachnik
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The Burghers of CalaisSculptureAuguste Rodin

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Auguste Rodin’s sculpture, commissioned in 1884 and completed in 1889, commemorates the 1346 siege of Calais during the Hundred Years’ War. It depicts six leaders, led by Eustache de Saint Pierre, who volunteered to surrender to England’s Edward III to save their city. Rodin captures their mix of defeat and heroic self-sacrifice. Their lives were spared by Queen Philippa of Hainault’s intervention, adding a layer of mercy to their story.