Does this sculpture represent peace and justice or shame? This is Ensemble pour la Paix et la Justice. It is a thought-provoking sculpture here in Lyon. It sparks debate about global power.
This artwork was created by Xavier de Fraissinette. He is a Lyon-trained artist. He crafts both jewelry and grand sculptures. This sculpture was erected in June 1996. Lyon hosted the G7 summit that year. It brought together the world’s seven major economic powers. These were the United States, Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Canada.
Ensemble pour la Paix et la Justice features seven figures. They appear to be lifting the world. To some, it symbolizes a family using leverage to improve the world. But others view it critically. They see it as representing only the seven powerful nations. These nations seem to control a world. The globe depicts only these seven countries. This omission has drawn criticism. Some label Ensemble pour la Paix et la Justice as the “sculpture of shame.”
The sculpture has become a target for alter-globalization activists. They view it as a symbol of capitalist globalization. Some argue the sculpture suggests these seven countries are the only ones advancing the world.
Xavier de Fraissinette has gained recognition for his work. He was even awarded the Chevalier de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2007. You can find Ensemble pour la Paix et la Justice in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. It stands along the Allée Achille Lignon. It begins at the Porte des Enfants du Rhône.
Ensemble pour la Paix et la Justice invites reflection. It challenges us to consider its message. Or perhaps, simply appreciate its unique artistic composition. It certainly stands apart from many classical sculptures found in France. Is it a symbol of cooperation or a reminder of global inequality? The answer is up to you.