Fontaine Pentagone

Amidst the grandeur of Paris, a touch of philanthropy quenches the thirst of all. The Fontaine Pentagone, a seemingly simple fountain, holds a story of compassion and practicality. Sir Richard Wallace, a British philanthropist, gifted these fountains to Paris after the Franco-Prussian War. The city was in ruins. Access to clean drinking water was a luxury for many. Wallace, witnessing the hardship, decided to intervene. He envisioned fountains that were both aesthetically pleasing and functional, accessible to everyone regardless of social standing. The Fontaine Pentagone, one of several models he commissioned, stands as a testament to his generosity. Designed by Charles-Auguste Lebourg, the Fontaine Pentagone, like other Wallace fountains, was constructed from cast iron. This material was cost-effective, durable, and easy to maintain, ensuring that the fountains could serve the city for generations. Wallace had a specific vision for his fountains. They needed to be large enough to be easily spotted but not so imposing as to disrupt the cityscape. He wanted beauty and practicality combined. The Fontaine Pentagone embodies this ideal. It provides a vital service while adding to the charm of its surroundings. The placement of each fountain was carefully considered. The city of Paris, under the guidance of Eugène Belgrand, director of the Paris waterworks, ensured that the fountains were easily accessible. They chose locations on squares or street corners. The distinctive green color, common for Parisian street furniture at the time, allowed the fountains to blend seamlessly into the urban landscape. The Fontaine Pentagone, though seemingly small in comparison to the grand monuments of Paris, offers a refreshing reminder of a simple act of kindness that has endured for over a century. It serves as a symbol of generosity, a testament to a time when a British philanthropist sought to alleviate the suffering of a city recovering from war. So, the next time you pass by the Fontaine Pentagone, take a moment to appreciate not just the refreshing water it provides, but the story of compassion and practicality it represents. It’s a small piece of Parisian history, quietly offering a drink to anyone who passes by, a legacy of Sir Richard Wallace’s enduring generosity.