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Origin and history

The Royal Wax Manufacture, officially named Manufacture d'Antony for wax bleaching and candle making, was founded in 1702 by Brice Péan de Saint-Gilles. It became a royal factory in 1719, as evidenced by its Latin motto "Deo regique laborant" ("They work for God and for the King"), engraved on a bas-relief representing a hive. This bas-relief, embedded in the wall of the building, was inscribed in historical monuments by order of 10 April 1929. The main building, built in 1714, now houses a convent of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Cluny, established since 1890.

The factory was bought in 1737 by Maison Trudon, famous for its waxes. A clock called "La Trudonne", offered by Madame Trudon to the workers, always overcomes the roof. The site underwent major changes in the 20th century: the chapel was erected in 1930 according to the plans of architect Hardy, while the master house, demolished in 1961, gave way to collective buildings after the sale of the park. Only the bas-relief and some architectural elements remain as traces of its royal industrial past.

Located at 14 avenue du Bois-de-Verrières in Antony (Hautes-de-Seine), the manufacture illustrates the artisanal and religious heritage of Île-de-France. Its history combines technical innovation, royal patronage and heritage conversion, reflecting the economic and social changes of the region since the 18th century.

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