Tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, Renaissance marble tomb in Nantes Cathedral, France.
The Tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, is an elaborate marble monument in Nantes Cathedral featuring detailed sculptural elements and carved decorations. It displays life-sized figures of the duke and his wife Margaret of Foix in repose, with three angels supporting their pillows.
Sculptor Michel Colombe completed this work in 1507 on commission from Anne of Brittany as a memorial to her father Francis II and mother Margaret of Foix. It stands as one of the first examples of Renaissance art introduced to Brittany.
The monument blends Italian marble craftsmanship with French sculptural techniques from the early 16th century, shaping how the cathedral looks and feels. The artistic choices reflect the creative exchange happening between regions during this period.
The tomb sits inside Nantes Cathedral in a central location where it is easy to view. Take time to walk around it slowly and look at the carved details from different angles to appreciate the artistic craftsmanship throughout.
During the French Revolution, architect Mathurin Crucy secretly arranged to remove the tomb from the church and hid it to safety. This action saved the work from destruction that affected many other monuments of that era.
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