Want to discover the story behind Place Jean Chorel? This place pays homage to a notable figure. It is located in Villeurbanne.
Place Jean Chorel is more than just a location. It is a tribute to Jean-Louis Chorel. He was a French sculptor, statuary, and painter.
Jean-Louis Chorel was born in Lyon. He later passed away in Villeurbanne. His artistic journey began at the École des Beaux-Arts de Lyon in 1892.
Chorel studied under Charles Dufraine and Pierre Devaux. He won the Prix de Paris in 1898. This opened doors to the École des Beaux-Arts de Paris. There, he learned from Louis-Ernest Barrias and Jules Coutan.
In 1903, Chorel’s “Éternelle lutte” earned recognition. He received a mention at the Salon. He also won the Prix Chenavard at the École. By 1910, he had moved back to Lyon. Later, he settled in Villeurbanne.
Chorel’s artistic contributions include several significant works. In 1907, he created the bust of Mme de Cuzieu. It is displayed at the Lycée La Martinière. He also crafted a monument to Gaspard André in 1905. It is located in Lyon’s Jardin du Palais Saint-Pierre.
Another notable piece is “La Muse de Pierre Dupont.” It was created in 1910. You can find it in the Jardin de la Préfecture du Rhône. Chorel also designed a monument to Jules Coste-Labaume in 1911. It stands on Place Croix-Paquet in Lyon.
His “Pieta” from 1926 resides in the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. The equestrian statue of Jeanne d’Arc appeared in 1928. It graces Place Puvis-de-Chavannes in Lyon. Additionally, Chorel created several war memorials. These memorials are in Lyon Montchat, Nyons, L’Arbresle, and Caluire-et-Cuire.
After Jean Chorel’s death, a medallion was placed on his former home. It honored his life and work. Place Jean Chorel stands as a lasting reminder. It celebrates his artistic legacy in Villeurbanne.
Getting to Place Jean Chorel is quite easy. The Chorel bus stop is just a minute away. The Le Tonkin light rail station is a short walk away. Several bus lines serve Place Jean Chorel. These include lines 70, C16, C17, and C2. The T1 and T4 trams also stop nearby. For metro access, Charpennes Charles Hernu is about an 11-minute walk.
So, as you stand here at Place Jean Chorel, remember the artist. Remember his sculptures and monuments. They enrich the cultural landscape of Lyon and Villeurbanne.