Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it is the Aigle de Genève Statue. Towering above us, it is more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol steeped in history.
The Aigle de Genève Statue represents Geneva’s coat of arms. Look closely and you will notice it is not just an eagle. It is half an eagle paired with a key.
The eagle symbolizes the power of the Bishop of Geneva. It is derived from the double-headed eagle of the Holy Roman Empire’s coat of arms. The key is an emblem of Saint Peter. He is the patron saint of Geneva’s cathedral.
This statue and its companion piece, the Dove of Peace, were created in 1939. They are equestrian sculptures. They stand proudly on Quai Turrettini.
Frédéric Schmied, a Swiss sculptor born in Zurich, created the Aigle de Genève. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Geneva. Schmied’s work was displayed at the Musée Rath in 1931. He even participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics sculpture competition.
Schmied’s talent is evident in other works around Geneva. You can find his “Horse and Peasant Woman” at the Jacques-Dalphin School in Carouge. A “Horse Head” graces the Lancy Town Hall. “Resting Wrestler” resides at the Frontenex stadium. “Saint Martin” stands on Rue Dizerens 25. A bronze sculpture “Fall of Horse and Rider” was created in 1954.
The Aigle de Genève is part of Geneva’s identity. The city’s flag and coat of arms feature the same symbols. The yellow and red colors represent the canton. The half-eagle is always on the flagpole side of the flag.
Interestingly, Genevans have a playful nickname for their coat of arms. They jokingly call it half a chicken and the cellar key. This jest dates back to the early 19th century.
So, as you stand before the Aigle de Genève Statue, remember its rich past. It is a testament to Geneva’s enduring spirit. It connects the city’s history with its present identity.