A sculpture by Paul Auban, removed from public view in September, has been restored and returned to its place in Pau, France. The artwork underwent repairs after sustaining damage, including broken fingers and a nose.
Nicolas Sabathier
The restoration was carried out by a specialist from the Rouge-Gorge workshop in Aveyron, France, who worked on-site in Pau for seven days. The statue, created by sculptor Paul Auban, had been stored at the municipal technical center since its removal in September. Auban, born in 1869, was known for his sculptural work, particularly depictions of women.

Nicolas Sabathier
The statue was carefully placed on a new basin constructed with stones from Portugal. The restoration also included recreating cornerstones that were originally part of the statue’s base.

Nicolas Sabathier
Barriers around the site are expected to be removed on Thursday, with the basin being filled with water on Friday. Officials anticipate that when the basin is filled, the statue’s toe will just touch the water’s surface. The restoration project aims to preserve this historic artwork for the community.

Nicolas Sabathier