Rodin's sculptures and graphic art was received with great enthusiasm in Germany around the turn of the century. Leading museum directors purchased works, far-sighted critics devoted articles and books to Rodin. The royal academies of the arts and the Secessionists were eager to recruit the sculptor as a member of their organizations.Numerous exhibitions of his art were held at all of the major museums in Germany during the years preceding the death of this great and highly acclaimed artist in 1917.