»Fragiles Colosses« – Michel Bassompierre shows animal sculptures of endangered species

Michel Bassompierre works with the traditional sculptural materials of bronze and marble, placing his animal figures within centuries of dignified representations of historical figures as well as culturally significant mythological or biblical content. In their sensitive design, Bassompierre, in collaboration with the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, shows us the intimate, proud, even playful sides of these powerful animals, each of which is – or soon was, if humans continue with their previous behavior – ruler of their natural environments.

Bassompierre's works reflect a certain monumental character, and not only through his choice of materials. Large pedestals elevate each sculpture, the titles refer to their respective circumstances as if they were explanations for future generations that will never know these animals alive. The botanical garden, created for scientific purposes and to preserve biodiversity, reinforces this effect as a highly symbolic exhibition space.

Works of this kind have already been shown by Bassompierre all over the world, for example, he also drew attention to the extremely endangered Asian elephants. This exhibition in Paris is free of charge and can be seen daily from 07:30 to 18:30 until October 18.