Le Passe-Muraille is a sculpture in Place Marcel Aymé, in Montmartre, Paris. It depicts Dutilleul, the central character in Marcel Aymé’s story about a man who can pass through walls, caught halfway through one. Look closely at the figure and the wall to see how the artwork captures that impossible moment. Pair the stop with a walk around Montmartre, where the sculpture connects the neighbourhood’s art with its literary history.
A figure caught between two worlds
At Place Marcel Aymé in Montmartre, Le Passe-Muraille shows a man partway through a wall. The sculpture takes its subject from Marcel Aymé’s story about Dutilleul, who has the ability to walk through walls. The figure’s position turns that idea into a single, striking scene: he has passed through the wall, but has not fully emerged.
The careful detail in the human form makes the fantastical subject feel tangible. Look at the figure from different angles, and notice how light and shadow shape its surface.
A literary stop in Montmartre
The sculpture links a work of fiction with a real corner of Montmartre. It makes a natural pause while exploring the neighbourhood on foot, especially if you are following its artistic and literary connections. The area is hilly, so comfortable footwear helps on the walk. Rain can mean fewer people around the artwork, leaving more room to look closely.
FAQ
Where is Le Passe-Muraille?
The sculpture is at Place Marcel Aymé in Montmartre, Paris.
What does Le Passe-Muraille depict?
It shows Dutilleul, the man who can walk through walls in Marcel Aymé’s story, caught partway through a wall.
When is a good time to visit?
Rainy weather can bring fewer people to the sculpture.
