J. Gonzalez

J. GONZÁLEZ (Spain, late 19th century).
"Bust of Baron Pierre de Coubertin (1863-1937)", 1894.
Bronze. Porphyry base.
Signed.
Measurements: 32 x 14 x 8 cm.

The bust in bidding represents Pierre de Coubertin, a French pedagogue and historian, known mainly for being the founder of the modern Olympic Games. His most important idea was to revive the ancient Greek Olympics, but adapted to the modern world. He believed that sport had a great educational value: it encouraged discipline, effort, respect and cooperation between countries. In 1894 he promoted the creation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and two years later, in 1896, the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens. Coubertin also promoted values such as fair play and participation over victory. In fact, he is credited with the famous idea: "The important thing is not to win, but to participate."