Joan of Arc Statue

Before you stands a proud testament to French history, a beacon of bravery and faith. This is Joan of Arc, a golden monument forged in bronze by Emmanuel Fremiet. She’s not just a statue: she’s a symbol of resilience, a reminder of a peasant girl who dared to fight for her country. The story of Joan of Arc is a captivating tale, imbued with both bravery and tragedy. During the Hundred Years’ War, she rose from obscurity. The French were in a dire situation, losing battle after battle against the English. It was at this time that Joan, guided by her fervent belief in God, led the French army to victory at Orleans, a pivotal moment in the war. She, a woman with no military training, proved to be a strategic and inspirational leader, her faith and courage fueling her fight. This remarkable victory led to the crowning of Charles VII as king of France. This was the turning point in the war, securing France’s independence from English rule. But her journey wasn’t without adversity. Her victory was short-lived. Captured by the English, Joan was accused of heresy and condemned. She was burned at the stake in 1431, at the young age of 19. For centuries, Joan was celebrated as a national heroine. She was canonized by Pope Benedict XV on May 16, 1920. Though she met a tragic end, her spirit continues to live on. Joan’s statue is a reminder of that spirit, a testament to the power of faith and courage, reminding us that even the smallest of people can achieve extraordinary things. Her statue was one of only three casts made by Fremiet. The first stood in Place des Pyramides in Paris, while the second stood in Nancy, France. The one in Philadelphia was brought over by Philly’s French community, a testament to their Franco-American heritage. It was initially placed on the eastern approach to Girard Avenue Bridge, but moved to its current location near the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1959, making it even more accessible to the thousands of people who visit the museum each year. The gilded bronze, a golden glimmer in Kelly Drive, stands tall. Take a moment to admire the detail of the sculpture, the flowing fabric of her armor, the strength in her face, the majestic horse she rides. It is a powerful representation of her legacy, a symbol of hope and courage that has endured for centuries.