Les Flèches des cathédrales, Metal sculpture near A10 motorway in Forges-les-Bains, France
Les Flèches des cathédrales is a stainless steel sculpture located near the A10 motorway, featuring polished surfaces that catch and reflect sunlight. The work consists of slender metal spires arranged to evoke the vertical thrust of traditional cathedral architecture.
The sculpture was created in 1989 by artist Georges Saulterre as a pioneering public art installation along a major French motorway. This work emerged during a period when artists began exploring how contemporary sculpture could interact with modern transportation corridors.
The metal spires evoke cathedral architecture and create a symbolic link between highway travelers and the sacred buildings that define the local landscape.
The sculpture sits at the departmental border and is clearly visible from the A10, particularly for drivers traveling between Paris and Saint-Arnoult. The installation is best appreciated from the moving vehicle, as it was designed specifically for this viewpoint.
The sculpture uses 18/10 stainless steel that features self-cleaning properties and extreme resistance to rust, allowing the mirror-like surfaces to maintain their shine over decades. This material choice was deliberate, ensuring minimal maintenance for an artwork exposed to constant weather in a remote location.
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