Activists Make Statement by Splashing Soup on Glass-Protected Mona Lisa
Two activists splattered pumpkin soup on the bullet-proof glass shielding the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum in Paris, calling for access to "healthy and sustainable food."
The incident coincided with protests by French farmers nationwide for environmental action.
As Louvre visitors watched in shock, the women, concealing the soup in a thermos, questioned whether art was more important than food rights. The Louvre confirmed that the artwork was unharmed and reopened following a brief closure.
Riposte Alimentaire took credit, launching a campaign for "social security of sustainable food" and demanding government support for affordable healthy food. They referenced a survey indicating many French people struggle to afford three healthy meals daily.
Culture Minister Rachida Dati condemned the protest, emphasizing heritage preservation for future generations. Government spokesperson Prisca Thevenot also criticized the act as misplaced, considering the environmental struggle.
With the agricultural community pressing for better conditions, French PM Gabriel Attal rushed to introduce new support measures ahead of important elections, seeking to mollify the unrest.
The Mona Lisa has previously withstood similar attacks; past incidents include a custard pie and rock-throwing. Since 1956, the painting has been protected by glass, upgraded to bullet-proof in 2005.
As Louvre visitors watched in shock, the women, concealing the soup in a thermos, questioned whether art was more important than food rights. The Louvre confirmed that the artwork was unharmed and reopened following a brief closure.
Riposte Alimentaire took credit, launching a campaign for "social security of sustainable food" and demanding government support for affordable healthy food. They referenced a survey indicating many French people struggle to afford three healthy meals daily.
Culture Minister Rachida Dati condemned the protest, emphasizing heritage preservation for future generations. Government spokesperson Prisca Thevenot also criticized the act as misplaced, considering the environmental struggle.
With the agricultural community pressing for better conditions, French PM Gabriel Attal rushed to introduce new support measures ahead of important elections, seeking to mollify the unrest.
The Mona Lisa has previously withstood similar attacks; past incidents include a custard pie and rock-throwing. Since 1956, the painting has been protected by glass, upgraded to bullet-proof in 2005.