Statue of Nantes Loses an Arm Amidst Neglect and Vandalism
In the heart of Nantes, the iconic statue symbolizing the city’s identity has suffered a grievous loss, with its left forearm mysteriously disappearing in a state of relative indifference.
Installed atop the majestic Fountain of the Place Royale, the statue embodies the prosperity and grandeur of Nantes’ maritime and fluvial history. Modeled on the Greek goddess Amphitrite, the majestic figure once wielded the trident of Neptune in her right hand, a symbol of the city’s fortune.
Yet, the statue’s present condition starkly contrasts with its former glory. Decades of neglect and unchecked vandalism have taken their toll, culminating in the recent loss of its forearm.
Yannick Royer, president of the local heritage association "Collectif des Bains-douches de Nantes," stumbled upon the startling sight while researching the sculptor responsible for the monument, Daniel Ducommun du Locle.
"It’s a solid piece of marble, it doesn’t just fall off like that. There must have been a significant impact," Royer remarked. "And strangely, there has been no official communication from the city about it."
Contacted by Le Figaro, the Nantes City Council confirmed that the forearm was lost in mid-January due to "wear and tear" without providing further details. They stated that the missing piece had been retrieved and is now safely stored.
However, Royer remains skeptical of the explanation, citing the persistent neglect and lack of proper protection for the statue.
"This is not simply the result of time," he asserted. "The weather conditions in Loire-Atlantique have certainly contributed, but there has also been blatant neglect by authorities over the years."
He pointed to the countless demonstrations and festivities that have taken place in Place Royale, where individuals have habitually climbed the fountain and the statue, causing incremental damage.
"There’s a clear lack of vigilance," Royer lamented. "During these events, people often climb the statue, even on its head, while intoxicated. It’s not only dangerous for the monument but also for those engaging in these reckless behaviors."
Multiple letters sent by the Collectif des Bains-douches to the Nantes City Council highlighting these concerns have gone unanswered.
Ironically, the loss of the forearm is not the statue’s first indignity. In May 1968, the original bronze trident in its right hand was stolen, necessitating multiple replacements with wooden facsimiles. Finally, in 2007, after yet another theft attempt, the statue lost its entire right hand.
"How is it that so many other statues with tridents in European cities are not facing the same problem?" Royer questioned. "It’s frustrating because this fountain is a masterpiece that deserves better protection."
The Fountain of the Place Royale, inaugurated in 1865, was designed by sculptor Daniel Ducommun du Locle and architect Henri Driollet. Unveiled amidst the bustling commercial district of Nantes, it celebrates the city’s maritime prowess and prosperity.
The allegorical presence of Nantes, adorned with a tiara representing the castle of the Dukes of Brittany, dominates the composition. Surrounding her are bronze figures representing the Loire River and its tributaries, along with graceful cherubs frolicking in the flowing water.
Now, this iconic landmark faces an uncertain future. The loss of the forearm has served as a wake-up call, prompting the city to commission a diagnostic assessment ahead of a planned restoration project.
While the news of the restoration is welcomed by Royer, he emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance.
"The statue and the entire fountain must be better protected," he declared. "It’s a testament to our city’s heritage and deserves the respect and care that it has long been denied."
