Keyword: Étienne François de Choiseul, Duke of Choiseul

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The writer thanks his correspondent – a fellow philosopher and supporter – for his powerful gesture against fanaticism, praising a statue commissioned as a tribute to reason and resistance to tyranny. He speaks highly of the sculptor Pigalle and the Duc de Choiseul, who, despite past associations, now supports Enlightenment ideals and has helped Genevan refugees by promoting their watchmaking trade. Voltaire praises Pigalle’s talent and simplicity, and admires the design of the Marshal de Saxe’s mausoleum. He also applauds the decision to replace the traditional image of enslaved figures at monarchs’ feet with depictions of free, happy citizens — an artistic shift toward honouring human dignity. He closes with affection and deep respect for his friend.

Repository: National Library of Russia
CMV: cmv36727