Petanque Statue, Leeds

The Petanque Statue, officially known as The Boules Players, is a striking bronze sculpture located in Bond Court, a popular square in central Leeds. Created by renowned sculptor Roger Burnett, the artwork captures the charm of the traditional French game of pétanque (or boules) and celebrates the cultural connection between Leeds and its twin city, Lille, France.

Unveiled in 2000 by the Lord Mayor of Lille, the sculpture was commissioned to mark the annual Northern Pétanque Colliers CRE Cup, a tournament that began in 1998. The life-sized figures depict a quintessential French pétanque player mid-throw, observed with curiosity by a Yorkshire family of three—a man, a woman, and their child. This dynamic interplay between the French and Yorkshire traditions reflects the sculpture's celebration of cultural exchange and unity.

Roger Burnett, who hails from Sowerby Bridge, faced creative challenges in designing the family. In his diary, he humorously recounted the extensive process of arranging the figures, experimenting with positions until the final composition—a couple with a child—was achieved. Nearby, a real pétanque court complements the artwork, inviting locals to engage with the game. An information board provides the rules, making the site as educational as it is artistic.

Bond Court has since become a hub for pétanque enthusiasts, with the court hosting lunchtime tournaments and summer championships. The sculpture itself remains a curious and interactive feature, blending history, sport, and art in the heart of Leeds’ bustling banking district. For those intrigued by Burnett’s work, a similar sculpture by the artist can be found near his studio at Sowerby Bridge.