Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The François-Devosge fountain of Gray was built between 1857 and 1860 as part of water supply work, motivated by cholera epidemics of 1849 and 1854. Designed by architect Christophe Colard, it replaces an earlier fountain dated 1751. Its location against the city hall symbolizes the importance of public hygiene at that time.

Composed of a semi-octogonal basin and a dice adorned with volutes, the fountain is surmounted by two statues on foot: that of François Devosge, draftsman and founder of a drawing school in Dijon, and that of Jean-Baptiste Romé de l'Isle, naturalist. These sculptures, made by Constant Grandgirard, a gray artist, bear precise inscriptions, such as the date of birth of Devosge (25 Jan. 1732).

Ranked Historic Monument by decree of 27 March 2000, the fountain illustrates the alliance between public utility and cultural homage. Its decor reflects local influence, with a statue dedicated to Devosge, a major regional figure. The accuracy of its location (place Charles-de-Gaulle) and its integration into urban space make it a central heritage element of Gray.

The fountain is part of a post-epidemic context where access to drinking water became a health priority. The work, conducted under the supervision of the municipality, marks a step in improving living conditions in Gray, while celebrating scientific and artistic personalities related to Burgundy-Franche-Comté.

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