Ecoute on Place René Cassin
Ecoute – The Listener, a sculpture located in Place René Cassin, adjacent to Les Halles, pays homage to its namesake, René Cassin.
The square itself was formerly part of the Saint Eustache Church square.
René Cassin played a pivotal role in the development of human rights, being one of the architects behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and the founder of UNESCO. His efforts were recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1968.
Originally, the square was paved with stones arranged in circular patterns, leading to a series of interconnected basins and miniature waterfalls, defining the church and its square from the gardens of the Forum des Halles.
In more recent times, Place René Cassin has undergone redesign and renovation as part of the redevelopment of Les Halles, transforming its appearance while retaining its historical significance.
The Listener sculpture
The square has now reclaimed its centerpiece, the monumental sculpture known as Ecoute. During the redevelopment of Les Halles, this sculpture, created by the French artist Henri Miller in 1986, was hidden from view behind the protective fences of the construction site for months.
Weighing 70 tons, Ecoute is crafted from sandstone sourced from Burgundy. The sculpture portrays the head of a giant, appearing to be in a state of peaceful slumber as it leans on one hand.
Its serene expression and gentle smile invite passersby to pause and listen to the world around them. Ecoute sits directly on the ground, without a pedestal, making it easily accessible to all.
Visitors, both young and old, can even climb into the hand and sit beside the giant ear, experiencing the artwork in an intimate and engaging manner.
Henri Miller’s signature is clearly visible on one side of the sculpture, a testament to the artist’s craftsmanship and contribution to this iconic piece of public art: “Henry Miller in 1986′.
The presence of this unusual sculpture has sparked significant controversy, a debate that continues to this day.
Directions: 1st district
Metro: Les Halles on Line 4
Coordinates: Lat 48.863393 – Long 2.345099
