Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Cuvier Fountain is a Parisian monument located at the corner of rue Linné and rue Cuvier, facing the Jardin des Plantes, in the 5th arrondissement. Directed in 1840 by the architect Alphonse Vigoureux, inspector of the waters of the city of Paris, it replaces the former Saint-Victor fountain. This project pays tribute to Georges Cuvier, famous naturalist, and is part of a desire to modernize Paris' public water points in the 19th century.

The central statue, the work of sculptor Jean-Jacques Feuchère, represents an allegory of natural history as a young woman holding tablets engraved with Cuvier's motto: "Rerum cognoscere causas". It is surrounded by symbolic animals, including an anatomically impossible crocodile, the artist's deliberate stylistic effect. The ornamental elements, such as the frieze and tympanum, are signed by Pierre-Jules Pomateau, a sculptor specializing in architectural decorations.

Ranked among historical monuments since April 3, 1984, the fountain illustrates the alliance between public utility and scientific celebration. Its location, close to the National Museum of Natural History, strengthens its link with the Parisian intellectual heritage. Materials and neoclassical style reflect the artistic cannons of the time, while integrating technical innovations for water supply.

Historical sources, such as Marie-Hélène Levadé's works or the archives of the Delegation to the artistic action of Paris, underline her role in the beautification of the city under the monarchy of July. The Cuvier fountain remains today a testimony of the 19th century Parisian urbanism, mixing functionality, art and tribute to science.

External links