Honoré de Balzac, Bronze statue in 8th arrondissement, France.
Created by sculptor Alexandre Falguière, this bronze work depicts the French writer standing upright with recognizable facial features carved into the metal. The piece occupies a public space in the 8th arrondissement as a tribute to the author of The Human Comedy.
Unveiled in 1902, this monument was among the first major public tributes to the writer in Paris during the city's growing focus on commemorating its literary heritage. The sculpture emerged when such memorials were becoming important markers of cultural importance.
The monument reflects how Paris honors major literary figures from the 1800s through public sculptures placed in busy areas. People passing through the district encounter this tribute as part of their daily routes through the city.
The statue stands in a busy area with multiple transit stops nearby, making it straightforward to reach while exploring the neighborhood. Being located in public space, it is accessible around the clock throughout the year without any restrictions.
This sculpture predates the more famous Rodin head of the writer, making it one of the earliest monumental tributes created before that later version gained wider recognition. Few visitors realize this Falguière work held the distinction of being the first such public honor.
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