Influenced by both the masters of Antiquity, the genius of Michelangelo and Baroque sculpture, notably Bernini, Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) is one of the most renowned artists in history. Though Rodin is considered a founder of modern sculpture, he did not set out to critique past classical traditions. Many of his sculptures were criticised and considered controversial because of their sensuality or realistic qualities. His most original works departed from traditional themes of mythology and allegory and embraced the human body, celebrated individualism and physicality.