With a new academic year and Michaelmas term, King’s opens its doors to students both old and new. A warm welcome however, is not the standard currency of The Royal Academy, opting in preference for a reception of awe and intimidation. Ironically, The Gates of Hell hosting contorted figures, dramatic facials and visible pleas, greets the spectator. The Rodin Exhibition is certainly something.

The initial sense of marvel is magnified as one trail-blazes through the exhibition. The show has it all on immaculate display. Yet, it is not the elaborate bronze ‘Jove’ nor the enrapturing ‘Kiss’ that make this exhibition supremely unique, but rather the extensive display of smaller sculptures such as ‘The Woman that once was Beautiful’. Although less grand, each maximizes Rodin’s genius of making melancholia seem tragically beautiful and poised.

Hence, past the gates, and the predictable classics, you will find that the Royal Academy has it right; big is not necessarily better. Exhibition runs until October 23rd.

My verdict 5/5