Observe how General Pierre Daumesnil stands defiantly before you. This is the Statue du général Daumesnil. It commemorates a man of legendary bravery. The statue is not just a work of art. It is a symbol of courage.
The Statue du général Daumesnil is in Vincennes. It honors General Pierre Daumesnil. He defended the Château de Vincennes in 1814. Louis Rochet sculpted this bronze monument. Charles Malifat brought it to life. The statue captures Daumesnil’s indomitable spirit.
In July 1867, a commission formed to honor Daumesnil. A decree followed to create a commemorative monument. Louis Rochet’s design won a competition. Vital Gabriel Dubray’s plaster model was placed in the Château de Vincennes.
A national subscription began in 1869 to fund the statue. The Franco-Prussian War delayed its unveiling. Finally, on May 26, 1873, the statue was revealed. Banners celebrated Daumesnil’s battles from Arcole to Wagram.
The Statue du général Daumesnil stands at 250 cm. It shows the general in full military dress. He leans on an artillery piece. His right hand points to his wooden leg. This recalls his retort to Prussian General Blücher. Daumesnil said, “Give me back my leg, and I will give you Vincennes.”
Daumesnil’s left hand holds Blücher’s crumpled surrender letter. His head is held high. He gazes towards the Château de Vincennes. His expression shows irony and disdain. This captures his legendary defiance.
Charles Garnier designed the pedestal. It is made of pink granite and stands 3 meters tall. The pedestal is an obelisk shape with a truncated top. Inscriptions read “1774-1832 DAUMESNIL” and “Souscription nationale.” A gray granite base anchors the statue.
The Statue du général Daumesnil embodies courage. Daumesnil’s story inspires reflections on bravery and resilience. His refusal to surrender is immortalized in bronze.
The statue was moved to the square of Marigny in 1891. This coincided with the construction of Vincennes’ new town hall. Today, it attracts visitors. It offers a glimpse into the past. It reminds people of Daumesnil’s enduring spirit.
Visiting the Statue du général Daumesnil is a must. Appreciate the artistry. Consider the history. The statue honors a hero. It shows the power of art to preserve history.
Daumesnil was born in Périgueux in 1776 or 1777. He joined the army in 1794. He served in the Italian campaign. He saved Bonaparte’s life twice in Egypt. Daumesnil became a lieutenant in 1800. He was promoted after Austerlitz.
Daumesnil fought in Prussia and Poland. He was wounded at Wagram in 1809. His left leg was amputated. He became a Baron of the Empire in 1810. In 1812, he commanded the Château de Vincennes.
In 1814, Daumesnil refused to surrender the fort to the allies. Louis XVIII recognized his courage. In 1815, Daumesnil rejoined Napoleon. After Napoleon’s second abdication, he again refused to surrender. He capitulated only to the Bourbons. He marched out under the tricolor flag.
Louis-Philippe restored Daumesnil’s command in 1830. Daumesnil guarded Charles X’s ministers. He protected them from a mob. Daumesnil died of cholera in 1832. He is buried in Vincennes.
Daumesnil was known as “The Wooden Leg.” His words were as strong as his actions. He told Blücher, “Give me back my leg and I will give you back the fort.”
The Statue du général Daumesnil remains a powerful tribute. It celebrates a man who stood firm against all odds. Take a moment to appreciate his unwavering spirit. Let it inspire you.