Amidst the urban tapestry of Etterbeek, stands the Tireur à l’Arc statue. It’s a remarkable bronze sculpture. It captures a moment of intense focus and physical exertion. The Tireur à l’Arc statue depicts a young African man, crouched low, his muscles taut as he draws back his bow. His gaze is fixed on his target. The statue rests on a high plinth of schist bricks. This elevates the figure. It gives it a sense of prominence against the backdrop of the city.
The Tireur à l’Arc statue is the work of Belgian artist Arthur Dupagne. He lived from 1895 to 1961. Dupagne’s connection to Africa was profound. He worked in the Kasai region of Congo from 1927 to 1935. He was employed by a mining company called Forminière. It was during this time that the initial clay model for the Tireur à l’Arc was conceived. Inspired by the people and the environment around him, Dupagne began to capture the essence of Congolese life in his art. Upon returning to Belgium, Dupagne completed the sculpture in his studio.
Interestingly, the original plaster model for the Tireur à l’Arc is on display at the Musée de la Boverie in Liège. The bronze version we see today in Etterbeek has its own unique history. It was a gift from Dupagne’s family to the municipality. Shortly after Dupagne’s death in 1961, his wife and daughter donated the plaster model to Etterbeek. The municipality then commissioned the Fonderie Minne in Ghent to cast it in bronze. The Tireur à l’Arc statue was unveiled in June 1962. It stands in a newly developed district of Etterbeek, a lasting testament to Dupagne’s artistry. A plaque on the front reads: “ARTHUR DUPAGNE 1895 – 1961, TIREUR A L’ARC, DON DE LA FAMILLE DUPAGNE”. The foundry’s mark, “FOND MINNE GAND”, discreetly graces the back of the bronze. The Tireur à l’Arc was even exhibited at the 1937 International Exposition in Paris, showcasing Dupagne’s talent on a global stage.
The Tireur à l’Arc statue invites reflection on both artistic skill and historical context. It is a captivating artwork. The statue is a reminder of Dupagne’s connection to Africa. It also marks a significant period in Belgian and Congolese history.