Memorial Relief (Hand of a Child)

Auguste Rodin

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture portrays a small hand in relief, emerging from a block of marble. The sculpture is predominantly white, typical of marble, with a contrast in texture between the smooth hand and the rough background. The hand appears to be that of a young child due to its size and delicate structure. The inscription around the hand reads "Offerte à Madame Elysabeth Mermillod en souvenir de sa fille Sally Hicks Croswell," dedicated to a madame in memory of her daughter. The name "A. Rodin" is engraved below the hand, indicating the artist. The sculpture is intimate and personal, with the detailed hand as the focal point amid the marble's natural texture.