La Science - Jules Blanchard, Bronze sculpture at Hotel de Ville, Paris, France.
La Science - Jules Blanchard is a 2.25-meter-high bronze sculpture standing in front of Paris City Hall's facade, depicting a seated female figure. She rests upon a stack of books while holding a tablet and compass, with flowing drapery surrounding her form.
Jules Blanchard created this allegorical sculpture in 1882 during a period when public art emphasized education and scientific advancement. The work emerged during a phase of major urban transformation in Paris, when public art was meant to promote enlightenment and modernity.
The female figure embodies the pursuit of knowledge through visible scientific symbols such as a globe decorated with zodiac signs and learning materials. This representation shows how education was viewed as central to progress in 19th-century Paris.
The sculpture stands in front of the main facade of Paris City Hall and is visible from outside at any time during daylight hours. Visitors can freely view the work from the street without any entry fees.
The work forms a symmetrical pair with Laurent Marqueste's sculpture L'Art standing immediately beside it, creating a dialogue between science and artistic expression. This juxtaposition was an intentional design choice to honor two dimensions of human development simultaneously.
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