The monumental lion statue by renowned French contemporary artist Richard Orlinski will soon be removed from Garibaldi Square in Nice, France, where it has been a prominent fixture since June 2023. The five-meter-tall sculpture, depicting a seated and roaring lion in contemporary style, has become an iconic presence in the square located between the port and the old town.

Originally scheduled for just a three-month exhibition period, the massive sculpture has significantly overstayed its welcome, remaining in place for nearly thirty months instead of the initially planned ninety days. According to Le Figaro, the statue must be removed before November 30, 2025, marking the official end of the free loan contract between the city and the artist. While the exact removal date has not been specified by the Nice city hall, referred to as the "City of Angels," the deadline is fast approaching.

The lion statue was part of a larger exhibition called "Orlinski's Promenade," which featured ten monumental animal sculptures displayed throughout various locations in Nice during the summer of 2023. The exhibition ran from June 10 to September 30, 2023, but while the other nine sculptures were removed as scheduled, only the lion remained on Garibaldi Square. The installation generated significant public reaction, with both admirers and detractors voicing their opinions about the contemporary artworks.

The extended stay of the sculpture came about through multiple contract renewals. What began as a thirty-day extension beyond the original three-month period eventually stretched into nearly thirty months, making the lion a semi-permanent fixture in one of Nice's most frequented public spaces. Visitors and locals alike have grown accustomed to seeking shade under the statue's imposing mane during the warm Mediterranean climate.

Richard Orlinski, who is not only a sculptor but also a musician, is known for his contemporary animal sculptures that combine modern artistic techniques with bold, geometric interpretations of wildlife. His works have gained international recognition and are displayed in various cities around the world. The Nice exhibition was described as a unique showcase of ten monumental works, bringing contemporary art to the historic streets of the French Riviera city.

Following the statue's removal, the city of Nice is considering replacing it with a new artwork to fill the void that its departure will leave in the square. However, officials have not yet revealed the nature of the replacement piece or the artist being considered for the project. A spokesperson for the city hall confirmed to Le Figaro that "the decision has not yet been made, and we are studying several options."

The statue's removal will mark the end of an era for Garibaldi Square, where the contemporary lion has coexisted with the historic architecture and traditional Mediterranean atmosphere of Nice. The sculpture has become a popular photo spot for tourists and a landmark for locals navigating the area between the bustling port and the charming old town streets.