In many parts of the world, “statue rubbing” is common. Rubbing part of a bronze statue is supposed to bring good luck. At Harvard University, rubbing the left shoe of John Harvard, one of the university’s founders, is supposed to improve one’s life.
In Paris, statue rubbing is more intimate.
At Place Dalida in the 18th arrondissement is a statue of Dalida – a singer who performed in 19 languages and died in 1987. But she continues to attract admirers. At least her breasts do.
In Paris, statue rubbing is not limited to female anatomy. In the Père LaChaise cemetery… Well, I’ll let a recent newspaper article finish the story.
Cemetery statue is eroding… because women can’t stop rubbing its ‘lucky penis’
The statue of a prominent 19th century French journalist is losing its bronze colour in some areas after scores women rub its crotch and kiss its lips for good luck.
The statue of Victor Noir, famous for a protuberance in its trousers, has been touched by thousands of women since being placed in the Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris in 1891.
In a bizarre ritual women kiss the lips, rub the crotch and place a flower in the hand of the statue believing it will improve their relationships and boost fertility.
A fence was built around the statue in 2004 after authorities grew concerned that it was losing its finesse.
However after protests the railings were brought down shortly after meaning people were free again to walk up to and touch the monument.
The look on his face tells me he’s enjoying all the attention.