October 19, 1943

Camille Claudel (December 8, 1864 to October 19, 1943) was a sculptor who faced formidable obstacles in gaining public attention for her work. Claudel became paranoid about the time in her life, when she became middle-aged. Her mother and brother, alarmed by her behavior, which included sending an envelope with cat excrement in it to a government official, had her confined in a mental institution, even though her doctor did not think this was the best setting. Her mental condition improved but her mother refused to let her be released. Camille Claudel died in an asylum and none would remember that except for the fact she had been lovers with Auguste Rodin. Now we have biographies. This review of Camille  Claudel: A Life (2002) by Odile Ayral-Clause, has a critical stance.