Artilleur, War memorial statue in La Fère, France
Artilleur is a limestone sculpture depicting a French artillery soldier in full military dress with historically accurate details of weapons and gear. The figure stands in a watchful pose that captures the appearance of a soldier from the 1800s.
Sculptor Auguste Arnaud created the work in 1856 to commemorate French military victories in a major conflict. The sculpture was moved from Paris to La Fère in 1970, where it acquired new significance as part of the town's garrison heritage.
The figure wears period military dress that reflects how French artillery soldiers were equipped and clothed during the 1800s. It serves as a tangible reminder of how the military shaped the identity of this town for generations.
The sculpture sits near former military barracks and is straightforward to reach on foot. Exploring the surrounding town helps you understand the deeper connection between this monument and the garrison's role in local history.
It is the sole surviving statue from the original Pont de l'Alma bridge in Paris to be relocated elsewhere. This relocation story makes it remarkable as an example of how a historical work can gain fresh meaning in a different community.
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