During a recent visit to the State Capitol in Baton Rouge for CODOFIL Day at the Legislature, we came across an object that perfectly embodies the centuries-old friendship between France and Louisiana: a magnificent Sèvres vase.
At first glance, it is an impressive piece of art—but the history hidden behind this vase (and the very building where it was created) is even more incredible.
A Royal Heritage
As noted on its plaque, this vase was crafted at the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres. Located in a charming town between Paris and Versailles, Sèvres was the official ceramic manufactory for French Royalty. It is the birthplace of some of the most refined craftsmanship in French history.
A Place of Excellence and History
The original building of the manufactory has lived several fascinating lives:
- Education for Girls: After the manufactory moved to a new location, the historic building became the first higher-education school for girls in France.
- A Famous Teacher: A fun fact for science lovers—the legendary Marie Curie actually taught there!
The Beating Heart of CODOFIL Today
Most importantly for our community, that very same building now houses FEI (France Éducation International). This is where our international education partners work and, crucially, it is the site where interviews are conducted for the French teachers who join the CODOFIL program.
A Bridge Between Two Worlds
Seeing this vase standing proudly in the Baton Rouge Capitol reminds us that our ties with France are not just historical—they are living and breathing. Every time a French teacher arrives in a Louisiana classroom, they bring a piece of a legacy that began in the exact same halls where this vase was fired.
The next time you visit the Capitol, look for this vase and remember the long journey it took from Sèvres to Louisiana!
About CODOFIL
The Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL) is a state agency within the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. Its mission is to support and promote the French language and Francophone cultures in Louisiana through education, scholarships, economic development, cultural programming, and international partnerships.
