February, 1871. On the eve of the Paris Commune, Rose Beuret, Auguste Rodin's life partner, is alone in the studio. As Rodin is away, she is in charge of one of his unfinished sculptures – clay must stay moist every day. To forget her solitude, Rose takes refuge in the daily care of this mute, incomplete piece. While revolt is rumbling outside, Rose locks herself in the studio and devotes herself entirely to the statue.

Anna, a young teenager, comes home from her Catholic boarding school for the holidays and discovers her father has left. Her mother is devastated and confined in the company of the local priest, who is also a childhood friend. Anna clings to her beloved grandfather. She also grows close to Pierre, a free-spirited teenager who cares little about God. Anna is preparing for her confirmation, but her budding desire for Pierre shakes her faith. She longs to give herself over, body and soul... but doesn't know if it is to God, or something else?