The Statue of Jean de La Fontaine stands proudly in the Jardin du Ranelagh, nestled at the intersection of Avenues Ingres and Ranelagh.
This bronze monument pays homage to the beloved French fabulist and was erected through the initiative of the Comité La Fontaine, established in 1884 to honor La Fontaine’s literary legacy.
The Vision Behind the Monument: The Comité La Fontaine
The initiative to create a statue was championed by a dedicated committee, which included notable figures such as Sully Prudhomme, a poet and member of the Académie française, and Dr. Marmottan, the mayor of the 16th arrondissement.
Their aim was to celebrate the life and works of La Fontaine, whose fables have enchanted generations. Among the honorary patrons of the committee were Victor Hugo and Armand Fallières, the then Minister of Education, demonstrating the cultural significance attached to this project.
A Monumental Journey: From Concept to Completion
The original statue was proposed by resident Teste in the late 19th century, leading to a public subscription to fund its construction. Designed by sculptor Dumilâtre, the first version of the statue was cast in bronze and unveiled on July 26, 1891, following numerous challenges in fundraising.
The project received support from the City of Paris and the state, reflecting a collective effort to honor La Fontaine’s enduring influence.
A Grand Design: Features of the Statue
Standing 7 meters tall, the statue is an impressive work of art that captures the essence of La Fontaine’s fables. Accompanying the bust of La Fontaine are intricately sculpted figures, including a lion, a snake, a monkey, and pigeons, as well as a crow holding a piece of cheese and other elements representing his stories.
The original pedestal by Frantz Jourdain remains, engraved with a dedication acknowledging public contributions.
A Tale of Resilience: The War and Reconstruction
Tragically, the original statue was melted down during World War II in 1942, a fate that befell many bronze sculptures of the era. After the war, discussions regarding a replacement statue began, yet numerous delays hindered progress.
It wasn’t until 1972 that the City of Paris reignited interest in the project, ultimately commissioning sculptor Correïa to create the current statue. This new bronze figure was finally inaugurated in 1984, restoring La Fontaine’s presence in the garden.
The Legacy of La Fontaine: A Cultural Icon
The statue captures a moment from La Fontaine’s famed fable, “The Crow and the Fox,” inviting visitors to reflect on the timeless lessons embedded within his stories.
This narrative connection enhances the experience for visitors of the Jardin du Ranelagh, where the statue serves as a testament to La Fontaine’s literary legacy and its impact on French culture.