Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The monument to the dead of Annecy, inaugurated in 1926 at the exhibition fair of the city, is the work of sculptor Philippe Besnard and municipal architect Decoux. The bronze band, melted by Rudier, represents an allegory of Peace and Victory, with an iconography imposed by the committee of sponsors. Peace is depicted in it with a juvenile character, while the Victoire, cast, is accompanied by a tree growing on ruins, symbol of hope. This artistic choice reflects the relationship between Annecy, a resort, and Parisian artists such as Besnard, son of painter Albert Besnard.

The base of the monument, designed by Decoux, is decorated with mosaic shields of the capitals of Haute-Savoie, made by the Mosaïsts Pedroli H. & E.. Originally installed on avenue d'Albigny, the monument was moved in 1977 to the entrance of the Promenade du Pâquier in Place du Souvenir. He was registered with the Historic Monuments by order of March 13, 2019, recognizing his heritage and memorial value.

The construction of the monument mobilized several local craftsmen and companies, including the marbrier Bernasconi, the locksmiths Isard Frères for the barrier, and the entrepreneur Louis Alberti. These collaborations illustrate the project's anchoring in the economic and artistic fabric of Annecy in the early 20th century, as well as its role in the commemoration of soldiers who died during the First World War.

External links