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Origin and history

The Lions fountain is a major sculptural work located in Plauzat, Puy-de-Dôme, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Made in the 19th century, it is distinguished by its circular structure in Volvic stone, typical of local architecture. It is located in front of the Saint-Pierre church, in the heart of the village, and was designed by the Clermont sculptor Henri Gourgouillon, whose style marks several monuments of the region.

The fountain consists of a central basin decorated with two lions and two sirens supporting tritons, symbols often associated with water and mythology. A central column supports two ribbed basins, between which roll four volutes. At the top, four naked children form a round, adding a touch both playful and artistic. The ensemble, registered with the Historical Monuments since 1986, reflects the know-how of local artisans and the importance of fountains in 19th century urban planning.

Ranked as a communal property, the Lions' Fountain also illustrates the social role of public water points at that time. These works were used not only for the supply of water, but also as a place of assembly and beautification of central squares. In Plauzat, its proximity to the church and castle highlights its integration into the historical and religious landscape of the village, while at the same time testifying to the artistic influence of Clermont-Ferrand, a nearby town where Gourguillon exercised his art.

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