The cast iron Tomb of Jean-François Chagot (1750-1824)

The cast iron Tomb of Jean-François Chagot (1750-1824)

While walking around Père-Lachaise Cemetery last Summer I happen upon the rare and amazing Neoclassical Greek Revival style tomb of Jean-François Chagot (1750-1824) made of cast iron. 19th century cast iron tombs are rare. Cast iron was much less expensive than marble and was a new material for making tombs in the 19th Century coupled with the ease of making more intricate patterns and designs. The choice of cast iron for the building instead of marble or granite for the tomb of Jean-François Chagot, however, was likely due to the fact that he owned a iron foundry outside of Paris. Not only were fences and tombs made of cast iron during the 19th century but also coffins. 

Jean-François Chagot (1750-1824), merchant and property manager, a shareholder of various companies, finally director and owner of Le Creusot Blanzy and coal mines. Married in 1786, he had 6 children. 

A Roman Urn Incense Tripod Burner

Note the Greco-Roman amphora vases at the bottom of the tomb. 

The top of the Tomb has a Greek Pediment topped with urn.