ancienne fontaine Sculpture

Gazing at the Ancien Fontaine, a sense of tranquility washes over you. It’s easy to forget you’re in the bustling heart of Paris. The Ancien Fontaine, originally called the Fontaine des Nymphes, stands as a testament to time. It has witnessed centuries of Parisian life, quietly observing the ebb and flow of history. This remarkable sculpture, nestled in the 1st arrondissement on Place Joachim-du-Bellay, is the oldest monumental fountain in Paris. Commissioned in 1550 under the reign of King Henry II, the Ancien Fontaine was designed to celebrate his royal entry into the city. Sculpted by the renowned Jean Goujon, the fountain originally graced the historic Rue Saint-Denis. Imagine the scene: horse-drawn carriages rattling down the cobblestone streets, vendors hawking their wares, and the gentle murmur of the fountain’s water providing a soothing backdrop. The Fontaine des Innocents, a true masterpiece of the French Renaissance, was originally conceived as a loggia. It featured three arcades adorned with intricate carvings of nymphs and mythical creatures. These figures, sculpted in bas-relief, capture a sense of grace and movement that is truly breathtaking. In the late 18th century, the Ancien Fontaine underwent a dramatic transformation. With the closure of the nearby Cimetière des Innocents, the fountain was relocated to the center of a newly created marketplace. It was then that architect Augustin Pajou added a fourth face to the structure. He meticulously crafted three new naiads, seamlessly blending his work with Goujon’s original design. In the mid-19th century, the marketplace made way for a public square. The Ancien Fontaine was moved once more. It was placed at the heart of the new square. A pyramid-shaped base with cascading basins was added. This gave the fountain its current appearance. The original bas-reliefs, now housed in the Louvre Museum, depict scenes from mythology. These carvings offer a glimpse into the artistic and cultural world of 16th-century France. Today, the Ancien Fontaine stands as a silent witness to Paris’s rich history. Its graceful nymphs and mythical creatures continue to enchant visitors. As you admire this exquisite sculpture, take a moment to appreciate its long journey. Reflect on its enduring presence in the heart of Paris.