‘A Fountain’ by Claudio Parmiggiani – Rennes, France - Atlas Obscura
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‘A Fountain’ by Claudio Parmiggiani

Rennes, France

Like the monarchs in its home country, this sculpture keeps losing its head.  

Claudio Parmiggiani sculptural head View all photos
The head sculpture is back in its rightful place (for now). abihunter (Atlas Obscura User)
Claudio Parmiggiani sculptural head
The head sculpture is back in its rightful place (for now). abihunter (Atlas Obscura User)
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The Fontaine de Coëtquen, by Italian sculptor Claudio Parmiggiani, has graced the Place de Coëtquen in the Breton capital since 1993. Although normal in most regards, the fountain has one feature of particular interest: the severed head.

Despite numerous exigences on the part of the Ville de Rennes, the head has been stolen three times to date: in 2000, in 2009, and again in 2013. One enterprising individual also gave it a moustache in 2003. 

The fountain is part of a larger undertaking by the city of Rennes to promote contemporary art in its public spaces. This particular piece still has its head. For now. 

Know Before You Go

Rennes is packed with public art. Plan to spend a few hours walking around the surrounding area to take it all in.

severed heads fountains public art sculptures art
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August 22, 2023
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Nearby
La Maison Sculptée
12.06 miles
Tomb of St. Lénard
13.45 miles
Temple de Mars
32.94 miles
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