Fame Mounted on Pegasus

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In 1699, Antoine Coysevox received a commission for two magnificent equestrian statues that would showcase the majesty of the "King's glorious reign". The statues were crafted from exquisite Carrara marble between 1701 and 1702 and proudly situated on either side of the upper section of the Bassin de l'Abreuvoir at Marly, marking the entrance to the lavish park. A bold inscription by Coysevox himself adorns the base, boasting that the completion of these two massive blocks within a mere two years was an awe-inspiring feat. Mercury, patron deity of commerce and the arts, forms an unforgettable duo with "Fame Rides Pegasus" as they dramatically sound a trumpet blast. One of the shields features a poignant allegory of Louis XIV's grandson, the duc d'Anjou, ascending to the throne of Spain. In 1719, these majestic groups were relocated to the west gates of the Tuileries gardens, where they stood until 1986 when they were skillfully replaced by exact replicas.