Constantin Brancusi
1876-1957 · Romanian (Hobita; worked in Paris) · Modern Sculpture
Known for: Pioneer of abstract sculpture who reduced forms to pure, polished essence - Bird in Space, The Kiss, Endless Column
Brancusi walked from Romania to Paris and arrived penniless. He studied under Rodin but left, saying 'Nothing grows in the shade of great trees.' He polished bronze and marble to mirror-like perfection, insisting on doing all carving himself.
US Customs classified his Bird in Space as a 'kitchen utensil' to impose duty, leading to a landmark court case. He lived simply, cooked Romanian peasant dishes, and resisted commercializing his work.
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