Fontaine Bartholdi

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Lyon's vibrant Place des Terreaux, the Fontaine Bartholdi stands as a monumental work of art, captivating visitors with its dramatic energy and intricate detail. This majestic fountain, sculpted by the celebrated Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi – the genius behind New York's Statue of Liberty – is a focal point of the city's 1st arrondissement. It features a powerful female figure, often interpreted as France itself, or more locally, the River Saône, driving a chariot drawn by four wild, rearing horses that symbolize the country's mighty waterways. Crafted from lead on an iron frame, the fountain measures an impressive 4.85 meters high and 9 meters wide, weighing 21 tons, with its basin spanning 15 meters in diameter. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see landmark in Lyon.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Fontaine Bartholdi is as dynamic as the sculpture itself, marked by a fascinating journey before finding its permanent home in Lyon. Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi originally designed the fountain in 1857 after winning a competition held by the city of Bordeaux for a grand fountain at their Place Quinconces. However, the project faced delays and, by 1886, after Bartholdi had achieved international fame with the Statue of Liberty, Bordeaux deemed the completed work too expensive.

Seizing this unique opportunity, the city of Lyon acquired the fountain in 1890, after it was showcased at the Exposition Universelle of 1889 in Paris. It was officially inaugurated in Lyon's Place des Terreaux in September 1892. Originally named 'Char triomphal de la Garonne' (Triumphal Chariot of the Garonne), reflecting its intended symbolism for Bordeaux and its tributaries, its interpretation shifted upon arrival in Lyon. The fountain was moved in 1992 during a significant urban renovation of Place des Terreaux, undertaken by Christian Drevet and Daniel Buren, to its current position directly in front of the Museum of Fine Arts. Its historical and artistic value was officially recognized when it was classified as a 'monument historique' on September 29, 1995.

What Makes It Special

Beyond its sheer size and the renown of its creator, the Fontaine Bartholdi is distinguished by several unique aspects. Firstly, it is a rare example of Bartholdi's work in lead, a challenging material that he masterfully transformed. As one inspector of historical monuments noted, 'Rodin brought life to bronze; Bartholdi brought life to lead.'

The fountain's allegorical depth is another compelling feature. While initially symbolizing the Garonne river and its four tributaries, its relocation to Lyon has led to a local reinterpretation, with the powerful female figure now often seen as an embodiment of the River Saône or even France itself. The four spirited horses, with their 'water weed' bridles and reins, create an extraordinary sense of motion, as if they are surging into the ocean, a true artistic and technical marvel.

Furthermore, the fountain underwent an extensive restoration between June 2016 and March 2018. This painstaking process not only repaired years of corrosion, deformation, and cracks but also incorporated modern technology. A misting and fiber optics system was ingeniously added to recreate the effect of 'smoking nostrils' for the horses, an artistic detail Bartholdi himself had aimed for but never fully perfected.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most amusing historical anecdotes surrounding the Fontaine Bartholdi is its 'failed' commission for Bordeaux. Imagine the city of Bordeaux commissioning a grand artwork only to find it too expensive, allowing its rival, Lyon, to snap it up! This rivalry adds a layer of charm to the fountain's origin story.

The fountain's symbolism has also adapted over time. Despite its original design representing the Garonne, Lyonnais residents have embraced it, often playfully reinterpreting the central figure as the River Saône, which flows through their city, with the horses perhaps representing its various currents or even the Rhône. This flexible symbolism allows locals to connect with the artwork on a more personal level.

Did you know that Bartholdi's original design for Bordeaux was inspired by the monumental Basin d'Apollon at Versailles? He transformed the classical theme into his own dynamic creation, substituting Apollo with a powerful female figure. The fountain's total weight, including its robust stone basin, is an astonishing 360 tons, a testament to its monumental scale.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler exploring Lyon, the Fontaine Bartholdi offers more than just a visual spectacle; it's an experience. Standing in the bustling Place des Terreaux, surrounded by grand architecture like the Hôtel de Ville and the Museum of Fine Arts, the fountain commands attention. Its dynamic sculptures evoke a sense of power and movement, inviting contemplation on its history and symbolism.

During the day, the splashing water provides a refreshing ambiance, especially in warmer months. In the evening, the fountain is beautifully illuminated, transforming it into a magical centerpiece that casts dramatic shadows and highlights its intricate details, offering fantastic photographic opportunities. Visitors often find themselves drawn to its allegorical narrative, reflecting on the historical journey and artistic vision behind this extraordinary creation. It's a place for quiet reflection, vibrant observation, and a deeper appreciation for Lyon's rich cultural tapestry.