"The combination of first-rate mechanical engineering and such manifest uselessness strikes [Jean-Paul] as being particularly, deliciously, French." What does he mean?

Discuss Jean-Paul's view of the Eiffel Tower: "The combination of first-rate mechanical engineering and such manifest uselessness strikes him as being particularly, deliciously, French." What does he mean? Does that description of French identity ring true with regard to any other characters or events in this novel?

All I could think about when I read that quote was french cooking and particularly baking. I have made many French desserts and ogled many in patisseries. They are delicious but often the construction and additional elaborate steps don't always add to the wonderful flavor - they just make the presentation more stupendous and eye catching.

I believe he's saying the French appreciate the huge tower especially for the fact of its indulgent, and almost but not quite over the top quality.

It's all about the flair. I am reminded of Josephine Baker.