Paul Dubois

I know I said I would focus on places this year, but don’t call me on it just yet. Paul Dubois had a lot of public art pieces in many different places, so it counts. As I searched through images of the sculptures he’s done, I was incredibly impressed with his talents, and this is why my blog this month centers on him.

 

The first of his works that I’d like to bring to your attention is The Tomb of Paul Baudry. Dubois sculpted only the bust of Baudry that you can see in the center, the other figures were done by Antonin Mercie. I've included this one particularly because I love cemetery art, which is something else you'll see a lot of this years.

Le Chanteur Florentin

This sculpture, Le Chanteur Florentin, is one of the most sought-after pieces he's done. The bronzes are still being sold. It is currently displayed at the d'Orsay museum in Paris. He's talented with faces and expressions, and at catching this young minstrel in the middle of his song. You half expect to hear a voice and a strum.

The Cavell-Depage Monument in Brussels

These beautiful cemetery angels are a monument to two nurses, Edith Cavell and Marie Depage. Edith Cavell was a nurse during WWI, and was known for her belief that she should help all wounded soldiers, no matter what side they fought for. She worked for Brussels, but was charged with treason for both treating soldiers from the other side and helping many escape. She was executed by the government. Marie Depage worked with her husband, both giving medical attention to the wounded during the war. She came to America to raise money to help their efforts, and on the way back the boat she was on sank. She and her husband are credited for helping to rescue many children while both of them sacrificed their lives. I can't think of a better reason to have a monument.

Joan of Arc, The Eglise St. Augustin Church, Paris

This Joan of Arc statue that he's done is one of my favorites. Dubois caught her in a great moment, one where I can picture her almost hesitating, wondering what kind of mess she's gotten herself into. But there's also a more confident look in her expression that we know takes over. She's the definition of courage, facing fear.

Lorraine and Alsace

This beautiful sculpture is actually highly symbolic. These two women represent areas of France, Lorraine and it's sub-area Alsace. The area was annexed from France by Germany during the Franco-Prussian war. Paul Dubois is trying to communicate the desire for the people to return to their homeland. Sound familiar? I find it interesting that I learned about this during the controversial trials of Crimea.

Charity

I love this last piece. It's self-explanatory. I love the children on the mother's lap, the closeness of the three and the bonding experience. This piece resides in the Musee Barrois in Bar-le-Duc, France. Such an amazing rendition of something that sometimes seems overdone, but is an example of why sculpture like this is still important.

 

I haven't included all of his works, of course, because there is so much. Google his name, and you'll find more of his incredible statues.