The Tomb of Silence and Endless Rest

At the age of 78, and over eight years, Ferdinand Cheval created what is often seen as the culmination of his artwork. Original in every aspect, the final work of Postman Cheval is photographed here by Clovis Prévost in the snow. In a profusion of detail that closely resembles the north facade of the Ideal Palace, the arches and volutes create the tomb, and the modeling emphasizes its creator's masterful precision. Still seen as an eccentric in his village, the artist left one facade of the plot empty to avoid clashing with his neighbor's space. In 1994, the district authorities of Hauterives, which now manage the legacy of Postman Cheval, decided to make the plot permanent, in recognition of the estate bequeathed to the village. It was named an official Historic Monument in 2011.