Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The funeral monument of Marguerite-Joséphine Jacquot, located in the cemetery of Ronquerolles (Val-d'Oise), is distinguished by its architecture inspired by ancient temples. It houses a bronze statue entitled L'Espérance, representing an anciently draped female figure, symbolizing the ideal of eternity. This tomb, particularly imposing, was allegedly commanded by the Duke of Valençay, presumed lover of Marguerite-Josephine Jacquot, who died in 1931. A replica of the statue, offered by SNECMA in 2004, now adorns Square Carlo Sarrabezolles in the 15th arrondissement of Paris.

The construction of the monument was supported by Félix Martin-Sabon, mayor of Ronquerolles from 1890 to 1896, who played a key role in recommending the sculptor Carlo Sarrabezolles, his friend. The latter designed an open columned edicle, surrounded by two curved wings, combining a type of surrounding walled tomb with monumental architecture. The work, combining classicism and purity, reflects the characteristics of the sculpture of the 1930s, while embodying a quest for eternity proper to funeral art.

Ranked among the historical monuments since 14 October 2020, the tomb fully protects its tempietto, its funerary slab, its surrounding walls and its walk. Its inscription is part of a series of protections of buildings in France in 2020, highlighting its heritage importance. The monument remains accessible in the cemetery of Ronquerolles, rue du Prieuré, where it bears witness to a local history combining art, power and memory.

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