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Origin and history

The statue of Valhubert is a marble work by sculptor Pierre Cartellier in the early 19th century. She represented Jean-Marie Valhubert, French General of the Revolution and Empire, born in Avranches in 1764 and died in 1805 from his wounds at the Battle of Austerlitz. Commanded by Napoleon to decorate the bridge of the Concord, the statue was completed in plaster in 1812 and marble in 1815, before being stored at the Invalides under the Restoration.

At the request of Valhubert's brother-in-law and the city of Avranches, the statue was transferred in 1829 and erected in 1832 in the square which today bears its name. The monument, at a height of 4.50 meters, shows the general standing in uniform, sword in hand, with a cannon ball at his feet symbolizing his death in combat. The statue and its base were listed as historical monuments on August 18, 2006.

Originally planned for Paris, this work illustrates Napoleon's tribute to the generals who fell for France. Its installation in Avranches, Valhubert's hometown, reinforces its local anchor and its memorial role. The choice of marble and realistic details, like the cannon ball, underline the desire to glorify a military hero while recalling the sacrifices of the imperial era.

The statue experienced displacements linked to political upheavals: first intended for an imperial project, it was relegated to the Restoration before finding its definitive place in its original city. Its recent designation as a historic monument reflects its heritage value and recognition of its importance in local and national history.

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