Meet Louis Lepicard, sculptor's companion on stone

The sculptural work of Louis Lepicard (1928-2004), says Normand l'Ami des Arts: an exceptional companion heritage

The Companion celebrates exceptional artisans who, through their talent and commitment, enrich our cultural heritage. Louis Lepicard, known as Normand the Friend of the Arts, is one of those Companions whose outstanding work deserves to be known and recognized. His journey illustrates beautifully the alliance between tradition and creativity that characterizes our institution.

How did his sculptures transform Norman architectural heritage?

Normand's artistic footprint is manifested in many prestigious buildings. Its contribution to the restoration of the west gate of the church of Caudebec-en-Caux represents one of its most remarkable sites. This colossal work extended over several years, with a significant technical peculiarity: the sculptor himself made the stone carving, thus ensuring perfect harmony between the restored parts and the original work.

His technical mastery is also illustrated in the streets of Rouen, notably Rue du Ruissel, where three magnificent Renaissance capitals bear his artistic signature. In addition, his work on Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral bears witness to his deep connection with the artisans of the past. As he explained himself: "The prints left in the stone tell me about the size of the sculptor, his temperament, his degree of nervousness."

The polychrome statuette he created for the XXII Congress of Le Havre in 1975 is another emblematic piece of his work. This symbolic sculpture represents a masterpiece holding the plan of a cathedral, surrounded by tools of the profession. Moreover, the small dog at his feet symbolizes fidelity, the fundamental value of the Companionage.

Why the artistic heritage of this sculptor's Companion inspires contemporary crafts?

Normand the Friend of the Arts was much more than a virtuoso sculptor. Indeed, this Companion of the United Duties was also a talented draftsman and watercolourist, as evidenced by his illustrations for the book "Manoirs du Pays de Caux" published in 1993. His expertise in artistic styles and his in-depth knowledge of traditional architecture made him an exceptional guide during the visits to monuments he was passionately commenting on.

Its radiation extended beyond the companion circle. As a result, his skills led him to be referred to as a sculptor for historical monuments in 1965. His contribution to the Palace of Versailles in 1973, where he worked on the woodwork of the porcelain salon, illustrates the recognition of his talent at the national level.

Normand's influence is perpetuated through the Companions he has trained and inspired. Among them, Pierre Deschamps, received under the name Normand le Désir de Bien Faire, continues this tradition of excellence. This transmission of know-how, the foundation of the Companion, ensures the sustainability of ancestral techniques while adapting them to contemporary requirements.

Louis Lepicard also contributed to the valorisation of the art professions through his writings. His article "History of a Norman Cabinet" published in our newspaper in 1976 demonstrates his attachment to the artisanal heritage of his region.

Readers of our latest review The Companion can discover the detailed analysis of his artistic contributions and his influence on contemporary craftsmanship.

How did a Companion manage to marry so perfectly tradition and innovation in his sculptural work? What unique techniques have made its reputation in the world of historical monuments? The complete article reveals the secrets of this exceptional sculptor.

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