Fontaine Bartholdi, Monumental fountain at Place des Terreaux, Lyon, France.
Fontaine Bartholdi is a monumental fountain at Place des Terreaux in Lyon featuring a seated female figure on a chariot controlling four horses. These horses represent the major rivers of France and are constructed from lead and iron, with lead components measuring between 1 and 4 millimeters in thickness.
The fountain was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in 1889 after initially being intended for Bordeaux. Budget constraints led to its installation in Lyon, where it became a landmark of the plaza.
The central figure represents an allegorical woman directing the four horses, symbolizing the connection between France's rivers and national identity. Visitors can see how she guides the horses with commanding gestures, conveying a message of control and harmony with nature.
The fountain underwent extensive restoration between 2015 and 2018, receiving modern lighting systems and structural improvements. Visitors can view it freely at any time on the public plaza, with good views available from various points around the square.
The fountain contains 21 tons of lead mounted on an iron frame, yet the lead components are surprisingly thin. These delicate metal sheets demonstrate the technical sophistication of the design, proving that grand appearance does not require massive amounts of material.
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