Le Souvenir, Bronze monument in Place Maginot, Nancy, France.
Le Souvenir is a bronze monument in Place Maginot featuring two seated female figures resting on a rock formation. The work depicts regional identities through traditional dress and the physical arrangement of the figures in close contact.
The monument was created in 1899 by sculptor Paul Dubois in response to territorial losses following the 1870 war. It emerged as a response to broader anxieties about France's position in Europe during that era.
The two figures wear traditional dress and headdresses specific to their regions, making the work instantly recognizable as a tribute to territorial identity. Their physical closeness conveys a sense of mutual support and shared history that draws viewers into their story.
The monument sits near Nancy's main train station, making it straightforward for visitors to locate and reach while exploring downtown. The open plaza setting provides easy viewing from all angles without barriers.
The artist created multiple versions of this work in different materials for various locations across France. A marble version sits in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, while another can be found at the Musée Saint-Loup in Troyes.
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