The Statue of Liberty in Luxembourg Gardens
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of freedom and democracy in the world. While the original statue stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, there are several replicas of the statue located across the world. One such replica can be found in Luxembourg Gardens, Paris.
The statue in Luxembourg Gardens was gifted to France by the American community living in Paris in 1889. It was erected to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution and the signing of the French-American Treaty of Alliance. Today, the statue has become a popular tourist attraction in Paris and a symbol of the long-standing relationship between France and the United States.
History of the Statue of Liberty replica
The replica of the Statue of Liberty in Luxembourg Gardens was created using the same molds used for the original statue in New York. The statue was cast by the French foundry, Gaget, Gauthier & Co, and was initially displayed at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris. After the exposition, the statue was moved to its current location in Luxembourg Gardens.
Over the years, the statue has endured several restorations and renovations, including the replacement of its torch in 1986. Today, the statue remains a popular attraction in Paris, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Location and accessibility of the statue
The replica of the Statue of Liberty is located in the southwest corner of Luxembourg Gardens, near the Medici Fountain. The statue is easily accessible by public transportation, with several metro and bus stops within walking distance.
Visitors can enter the gardens for free and can view the statue from various angles. However, due to its location in a public park, visitors cannot enter the pedestal or climb the statue.
Physical dimensions of the statue
The replica of the Statue of Liberty in Luxembourg Gardens stands at 11.50 meters (37 feet) tall, including its pedestal. The statue itself measures 2.85 meters (9.4 feet) tall and is made of bronze.
Material used in the statue’s construction
The statue is made of bronze, which was cast using the same molds as the original statue in New York. The pedestal is made of stone and features several decorative elements, including garlands and shields.
Depiction of the statue’s face and crown
The statue’s face features a stern expression, with closed lips and a furrowed brow. The crown on the statue’s head features seven spikes, representing the seven continents and seas of the world.
The statue’s body and clothing
The statue is depicted wearing a flowing robe, which is draped over her left shoulder and falls to her feet. The robe features several folds and creases, giving it a sense of movement. The statue’s right hand is raised, holding a torch, while her left hand rests on a tablet.
The torch and its symbolic significance
The torch held by the statue represents enlightenment and progress, as well as the idea of liberty shining its light on the world. The original torch was replaced in 1986 with a new copper and gold-plated torch, which is illuminated at night.
The pedestal and its design
The pedestal on which the statue stands is made of stone and features several decorative elements, including garlands, shields, and inscriptions. The pedestal was designed by French architect Charles Girault and stands at 7.05 meters (23.1 feet) tall.
The inscription on the statue’s tablet
The tablet held by the statue features the inscription "JUILLET IV MDCCLXXVI" (July 4, 1776), which represents the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Comparison with the original Statue of Liberty
While the replica in Luxembourg Gardens is nearly identical to the original statue in New York, there are a few differences. The replica is slightly smaller than the original, and its base features different decorative elements. Additionally, the torch on the replica is facing downward, while the torch on the original faces upward.
Conclusion: The significance of the Luxembourg Gardens statue
The replica of the Statue of Liberty in Luxembourg Gardens serves as a testament to the enduring relationship between France and the United States. It also serves as a symbol of freedom and democracy, inspiring visitors from around the world to reflect on the importance of these values. Despite its smaller size, the statue remains a popular attraction in Paris and a must-see for anyone interested in history and culture.
