Pierre de Wiessant c. 1886-87, reduction made in either 1895 or 1899, date of cast unknown Bronze 18 ¾  x  6 ½  x  6 3/8 in. Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Collection Rodin created many full-figure studies of Pierre de Wiessant. He experimented with different models to explore various body types and poses. The figure in the final monument portrays Pierre de Wiessant looking over his shoulder, his hand extended as if in despair. His face shows great anguish, and his intense emotions make him appear withdrawn from the other figures. It differs greatly from the first maquette, which shows Pierre de Wiessant staring outwards with his hand pointing to himself, perhaps questioning his impending fate. No longer questioning, the young burgher now seems to look inward, as if he is painfully beginning to accept the inevitable. The Burghers of Calais brought Rodin much notoriety because he chose not to conform to academic standards. The heroes were not portrayed triumphantly, but rather at the moment each realized the limits of his humanity. They are barefoot and wearing sackcloth; their anguish is evident in their despondent poses and gestures. The shift in focus from triumphant glory to human suffering changed the form and meaning of the public monument as it was known at the time.