The Equestrian Statue of Joan of Arc

In the sumptuous setting of Place des Pyramides in Paris stands the majestic and imposing equestrian statue of Joan of Arc. Created by sculptor Emmanuel Frémiet, this sculpture pays tribute to the Maid of Orléans, an emblematic figure of courage and determination.

Joan of Arc, born in 1412 in Domrémy, in the Duchy of Bar, is a major historical figure in medieval France. At the age of 17, she claimed to be guided by divine voices commanding her to free France from English invaders and to have the Dauphin Charles VII crowned in Reims. In 1429, she convinced the Dauphin and obtained an army to lift the siege of Orléans, which she successfully accomplished. Her presence galvanized the French troops and reversed the course of the Hundred Years’ War. After several victories, she was captured in 1430 by the Burgundians, allies of the English, and tried for heresy. Condemned to death, she was burned alive in Rouen in 1431. Joan of Arc was canonized in 1920, becoming a saint and a national symbol of courage and faith.

Inaugurated in 1874, the statue marked a moment of great national fervor. Frémiet, deeply admiring Joan, put all his talent into depicting the young heroine on horseback in a proud and resolute posture. A charming anecdote tells that one day, as he worked late in his studio, Frémiet, exhausted, fell asleep in front of his unfinished work. Upon waking, he swore he saw Joan’s shadow rise and infuse him with the energy needed to complete his work.

The choice of Place des Pyramides is no coincidence. This location, near the Louvre, is steeped in history and symbolism. Joan, the national heroine, seems to watch over the City of Light, reminding every passerby of the price of freedom and independence. An urban legend claims that at dusk, when the streets empty and Paris settles down, one can hear the soft clatter of her horse’s hooves, a distant echo of her victorious battles.

Since its installation, the statue has become a place of remembrance and reflection. Every year, on May 30th, the anniversary of Joan’s death, ceremonies and tributes are held there. A significant event took place in 1944 during the liberation of Paris. Resistance fighters from all walks of life gathered at the foot of the statue to celebrate victory, waving French flags and singing “La Marseillaise.” A veteran fondly remembered that moment, affirming that Joan’s presence had given them the strength and courage to fight.

Frémiet’s work has endured the decades without losing its splendor or impact. Visitors, whether Parisians or tourists, often stop to admire the fine details and intense expression of Joan’s face. Once, an artist seeking inspiration spent hours drawing the statue from different angles, trying to capture the very essence of this symbol of bravery.

Today, the equestrian statue of Joan of Arc continues to inspire and fascinate. It remains a tangible reminder of past struggles and a symbol of hope and resilience. Each glance cast upon it is an invitation to remember and reflect, to draw from history the strength to face present challenges. Thus, in the majestic setting of Place des Pyramides, Joan of Arc eternally rides, an ageless heroine and guardian of Parisian spirit.