Design for the Elephant Fountain at the Place de la Bastille

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Design for the Elephant Fountain at the Place de la Bastille", originally brought to life by the talented Jean Antoine Alavoine. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Jean Antoine Alavoine and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Design for the Elephant Fountain at the Place de la Bastille was a monumental concept conceived by the French architect Jean Antoine Alavoine. The idea was born out of the tumultuous period following the French Revolution and was intended to be a symbol of France's power and modernity. Alavoine, who was known for his neoclassical architectural style, proposed the grandiose project in the early 19th century, during the Bourbon Restoration, a time when many public works were commissioned to rebuild and symbolize the nation's pride and stability.

The proposed fountain was to be centered around a colossal elephant, which would stand in the Place de la Bastille in Paris, the site of the former Bastille prison, which had been stormed and demolished during the Revolution. The elephant was chosen for its connotations of strength and wisdom and was to be made of bronze, towering above the square and serving as a grandiose reminder of France's imperial aspirations during the period.

Alavoine's design was detailed and ambitious, featuring the elephant with a howdah on its back, which would serve as a fountain, with water spouting from various points. The plans for the fountain included intricate decorations and were meant to be not only a decorative piece but also a functional part of the city's water distribution system.

Despite the grand vision, the Elephant Fountain was never fully realized. A full-scale plaster model was constructed in 1814, which stood on the site for several years, but due to political changes and financial constraints, the bronze casting was never completed. The plaster elephant itself became a notable landmark and was referenced in Victor Hugo's novel "Les Misérables." It was eventually demolished in 1846.

The Design for the Elephant Fountain at the Place de la Bastille remains a fascinating footnote in the history of Parisian architecture and urban planning. It serves as a testament to the ambitious public works that characterized the era and reflects the complex interplay of art, politics, and society in post-revolutionary France.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.