Pericles Giving Crowns to Artists, sculpture by Jean-Baptiste Joseph Debay
This marble sculpture in the Tuileries Garden depicts a scene where one figure presents crowns to others, honoring artistic achievement through a formal gesture. The work stands freely within the garden space and measures approximately 2.4 meters tall with detailed carving throughout.
A French sculptor created this work in the 1830s, a period when France actively looked back to ancient civilization for inspiration and cultural meaning. This neoclassical work fitted the tastes of that era and represented values that connected modern France to classical traditions.
The statue shows a moment of recognition between a leader and creative people, which visitors can see depicted in the marble figures. It communicates how societies have historically honored artists and their contributions to public life.
The statue stands in the open garden and can be viewed from the surrounding pathways without any special preparation needed. Visiting during daylight hours allows you to see the details of the marble work clearly and appreciate its craftsmanship.
The sculpture was part of a broader artistic program to shape the Tuileries Garden in the 19th century when it was being developed as an open-air public art collection. It stands alongside other neoclassical works that France commissioned to express its cultural values during that period.
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