The name of the Caryatids would come from the canephoras, young Greek vestals who carried offerings on their heads during Antiquity. Maybe they served as inspiration for Sir Richard Wallace's generosity. He was appalled by the misery and lack of water of the Parisian population during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871). He, therefore, donated free fountains so that everyone could drink at will. They were designed by Charles-Auguste Lebourg and crafted by the workers of the GHM foundry in Sommevoire.