Fountain of Amiral Bruat, Bronze sculpture in central Colmar, France
The Fountain of Amiral Bruat is a bronze monument featuring a central figure of the admiral with four allegorical statues representing continents positioned at its base. These four female figures symbolize Asia, Africa, Oceania, and America, forming a cohesive sculptural ensemble.
The original monument was erected in 1864 but destroyed by German forces during 1940. It was completely reconstructed in 1958, restoring the composition to its current form.
The monument honors Admiral Armand Joseph Bruat, a French naval officer who administered overseas territories and commanded naval forces during the colonial era. His figure represents France's maritime presence and exploration efforts of the 19th century.
The monument is located on a public square in central Colmar and is freely accessible at all times. The original statue heads are displayed at the nearby Bartholdi Museum, where visitors can examine details of the 19th-century originals up close.
The bronze of the original monument came from cannons captured during the admiral's naval campaigns. This unusual material origin directly connects the sculpture to his military achievements at sea.
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