Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > London
Cutting through the Vendome Column; Paris Commune 1871
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cutting through the Vendome Column; Paris Commune 1871
A group of Communards cutting through the base of the column in the Place Vendome, Paris, 1871. The Communards decided to remove the column, a symbol of imperial splendour, but had great difficulty in knocking it down. An engineer came up with the solution to bore a hole in the base and fell it like a tree. Date: 1871
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20159427
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Bubblepunk
1871 Bore Communards Commune Cutting Decided Difficulty Engineer Fell Hole Knocking Remove Solution Splendour Symbol Vendome Base
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> London
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2020
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures a pivotal moment during the Paris Commune of 1871, as a group of determined Communards work to cut through the base of the Vendome Column in Paris. The fall of the Second French Empire had led to the rise of the Paris Commune, a revolutionary government established by the working classes of Paris. The Vendome Column, a symbol of imperial splendor and military triumphs, was a potent reminder of the old regime and its oppressive rule. The Communards, seeking to rid the city of such reminders of the past, decided to remove the column. However, they faced great difficulty in knocking it down due to its massive size and solid construction. An engineer, recognizing the challenge at hand, came up with a clever solution. He suggested boring a hole in the base of the column and then, much like felled tree, it could be brought crashing down. The image shows the Communards in the process of implementing this plan, with one man carefully sawing away at the base while others stand by, ready to assist. The column's ornate decorations and intricate carvings are clearly visible, adding to the historical significance of the scene. The image offers a powerful reminder of the revolutionary fervor and determination that characterized the Paris Commune and the desire to create a new, more equitable society in its wake.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.