Michel de Montaigne

Michel de Montaigne is a bronze sculpture in Square Samuel-Paty that portrays the Renaissance philosopher with detailed craftsmanship. The work captures his figure in a contemplative pose, showing period clothing and facial features rendered through skilled bronze work.

Sculptor Paul Landowski created the work and it was unveiled on January 17, 1934. The sculpture honors a 16th-century French writer whose Essays transformed how people approached literature and personal reflection.

The sculpture sits near universities and serves as a reminder of Montaigne's enduring influence on how people think and express themselves through writing. Visitors encounter the statue within an academic environment where his ideas remain actively studied and debated.

The sculpture sits in the 5th arrondissement and is surrounded by benches where visitors can rest and observe their surroundings. The square lies within walking distance of other landmarks and is easy to access.

The work was among Paul Landowski's early commissions before he became known for monumental sculpture across Europe. The statue reveals the emerging style of an artist whose approach would evolve significantly throughout his career.

Location: 5th arrondissement of Paris

Inception: 1934

Creator: Paul Landowski

GPS coordinates: 48.84993,2.34400

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:28