Audio GuideFontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde
The "4 corners of the world" are represented by bronze female figures at this 19th-century fountain.
Park
Paris, France
Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde is a historic Parisian landmark located in the 6th arrondissement near the Paris Observatory and the Jardin du Luxembourg. Constructed between 1867 and 1874, this fountain is also known as Fontaine de l’Observatoire or Fontaine Carpeaux. It was designed by architect Gabriel Davioud, whose work represents the spirit of 19th-century design.
The central figures were crafted by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux. Four bronze female statues embody different continents: Africa, America, Asia, and Europe. The African figure notably wears a broken chain on her ankle, a powerful symbol of the fight against slavery. Emmanuel Frémiet contributed lively sculptures of sea horses, fish, and turtles, while Eugène Legrain and Louis Villeminot added ornamental details such as a globe with zodiac signs.
The artistic style of the fountain, marked by fluid movement and expressive details, reflects vibrant trends of the time. Its location close to major landmarks reinforces its cultural significance. Listed as a historic monument since 1926, the fountain has been carefully preserved over time. Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural exchange and historical storytelling in modern-day Paris, inviting visitors to enjoy both its beauty and its rich legacy.
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