Statue of Joan of Arc

Feb 14th, 2023

The State Library of Victoria is home to many monuments and sculptures, some of these are located in the front lawns and forecourt on Swanston Street, Melbourne. The one on the right is that of the legendary heroine of France, Joan of Arc or Jeanne d'Arc, as she is known in English and French respectively. It was selected for its artistic qualities rather than as anyones national symbol and it complements the statue of St George and the Dragon on the left of the State Library's front lawns and forecourt. Valiantly riding her horse, holding high a flag, this bronze sculpture was made by the French sculptor, Emmanuel Frmiet, who was famous for making equestrian sculptures. It arrived in Port Melbourne by ship from Marseilles in France in a massive crate and from there it was transported by train to Spencer Street (now Southern Cross) station. From there it was hauled to the Library on a wagon drawn by four horses and was finally placed in its current location on 1 February, 1907. The State Library's Joan of Arc statue has often been a celebration and rallying location for Melbourne's French and Francophile community (e.g. Bastille Day). The State Library of Victoria is a must-see landmark in Melbourne
Mar 22nd, 2021

Jun 26th, 2019

Apr 18th, 2019

Mar 9th, 2019