Max Ernst installation in Touraine 1954 (≈ 1954)
The artist settled in Huismes (Indre-et-Loire).
1966
Michel Debré becomes mayor
Michel Debré becomes mayor 1966 (≈ 1966)
Future patron of the fountain.
1968
Inauguration of the fountain
Inauguration of the fountain 1968 (≈ 1968)
Work offered to Amboise by Max Ernst.
1984
Theft of bronze sculptures
Theft of bronze sculptures 1984 (≈ 1984)
Elements replaced by resin reproductions.
9 juillet 1987
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 9 juillet 1987 (≈ 1987)
Registration by ministerial decree.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Max Ernst Fountain, including its carved elements (AM 153 DP): inscription by order of 9 July 1987
Key figures
Max Ernst - Surrealist artist
Creator of the fountain, installed in Touraine.
Michel Debré - Mayor of Amboise (1966–)
Sponsor and recipient of the work.
Origin and history
The fountain of Max Ernst, installed in 1968 on the left bank of the Loire in Amboise, is a major work of surrealism in public space. Commissioned by Michel Debré, then mayor of the city, it was offered by the artist in thanks for obtaining his French nationality, facilitated by Debré. The work, listed as a historical monument in 1987, is distinguished by its circular basin decorated with six bronze turtles and frogs, dominated by a central genius. Some elements, stolen in 1984, were replaced by resin reproductions.
Max Ernst, installed in Huismes (Indre-et-Loire) since 1954, conceived this fountain as a stone structure incorporating pre-existing bronze sculptures. Titled Aux Crachieurs, au Drove, au Génie, it reflects her dreamlike and poetic universe. The bronzes, cast at the Susse foundry, include superimposed spheres and stylized animal figures, arranged around the central genius. The ensemble illustrates the dialogue between art and urban space, typical of post-war public orders.
The inscription of the fountain as a historic monument by order of 9 July 1987 underlines its heritage value. Located on the Charles de Gaulle wharf, at the eastern entrance of the mail, it marks the commitment of Amboise to the preservation of modern art. The flights of 1984, followed by restorations, recall the challenges of preserving the works exhibited outside. Today, it remains a testimony of the link between Max Ernst and the Touraine, as well as of the surreal heritage in France.
