A fence has been erected around the effigy of 19th century journalist Victor Noir in Pere-Lachaise Cemetery in Paris because of the vigorous rubbing by visitors that threatens to damage the notably bulging groin area of the bronze likeness.
According to the BBC, “It is said that a woman who kisses the lips of the prostrate statue and slips a flower into the upturned top hat will find a husband by the end of the year.” No word on what pleasuring the effigy might do for men.
Noir died after losing a duel to a great-nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte.
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