In the footsteps of Auguste Rodin: Fragmentation is not an end

Starting from the notions of Auguste Rodin in the art world, the article aims at tackling the problem of fragmentation of figurines from a theoretical point of view. The article discusses the modes of damage, dividing them between accidental, intentional and semi-intentional. In the analysis of figurine breakage, the factors of time, archaeological context, and social dimension must also be taken into consideration. The final part of the article tackles the ‘negative’ notions connected with the idea of destruction of an object, especially a figurine. While usually mutilation and damage are interpreted as signs of destruction, decay, death, annihilation, or dysfunctionality, the fragments can be instead considered part of a transformative, generative, and even communicative and associative process.