The July Column remains the most prominent achievement in the professional life of Jean-Antoine Alavoine, serving as a monument to those lost during the 1830 Revolution. Standing in Paris, this structure occupies the Place de la Bastille, representing a significant undertaking in his career as an architect and sculptor during the nineteenth century.
Professional Formation and Recognition
Born in Paris in 1778, Alavoine received his formal training at the Beaux-Arts de Paris. His work within the field of classical architecture earned him formal recognition from the French state, culminating in his appointment as a Knight of the Legion of Honour in 1825. Beyond his active practice, he maintained institutional ties through his membership in the Académie des sciences, belles-lettres et arts de Rouen.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Elephant of the Bastille
In 1813, Alavoine collaborated with the architect Bridan to execute an order from Napoleon. Under the guidance of Ambroise Tardieu, they developed plans for a colossal fountain in the form of an elephant for the Place de la Bastille. The design featured a cast-bronze exterior over a supportive framework and included an internal staircase leading to a viewing area within a howdah. While the monument was erected, the final structure utilized staff—a durable plaster—rather than bronze. It remained standing until 1846 before being removed.
Architectural Projects and Gothic Revival
Alavoine engaged in various projects throughout the Paris region. His contributions included a hothouse for the botanical garden of M. Boursault at Yerres, located near Brunoy, and a bridge for M. Hypolitte in the park at Cassan. These works were documented in the 1812 publication Recueil d'architecture civile by Jean-Charles Krafft. Furthermore, he participated in the nascent stages of the Gothic Revival in France by drafting a design for the spire of Rouen Cathedral in 1823, which drew inspiration from the spire of Salisbury Cathedral.
The July Column
Between 1831 and 1840, Alavoine oversaw the construction of the July Column. Designed with a larger scale than the column found in the Place Vendôme, the structure incorporates a capital based on the Corinthian order. Its specific aesthetic features include exaggerated corner volutes alongside putti holding swags. This design remains his most significant contribution to the urban landscape of Paris, where he lived and worked until his death in 1834.
Fast facts
- Born: 1778, Paris
- Died: 1834, Paris
- Education: Beaux-Arts de Paris
- Notable Award: Knight of the Legion of Honour (1825)
- Primary Field: Classical Architecture
- Member: Académie des sciences, belles-lettres et arts de Rouen
Questions readers ask
What was the purpose of the Elephant of the Bastille?
It was designed as a monumental fountain commissioned by Napoleon, intended to serve as both an ornamental structure and a viewing platform for visitors.
Which major memorial did Alavoine design?
He designed the July Column, located in the Place de la Bastille, to memorialize those who died during the Revolution of 1830.
Achievements
- Notable work: July Column
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Trained at Beaux-Arts de Paris
.jpg)