The head of France’s Palace of Versailles, Christophe Leribault, is set to take over as director of the Louvre Museum following the resignation of Laurence des Cars. This change comes in the wake of a high-profile robbery that saw French crown jewels valued at $100 million stolen from the museum in October 2022. An informed source revealed that the announcement of Leribault’s appointment is expected during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
Leribault, aged 62, is an accomplished art historian with a specialization in 18th century art. He has previously led notable Paris institutions, including the Musée d’Orsay and the Petit Palais. His recent role as president of the Palace of Versailles, a major tourist attraction, has positioned him as a fitting candidate to modernize and secure the Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum, which attracts around nine million visitors annually.
Des Cars submitted her resignation to President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, which was accepted promptly. Her tenure as director of the Louvre began in 2021 but became increasingly untenable following the October robbery, which is currently under investigation. Four suspects remain in police custody, including the alleged thieves, while eight of the stolen items have yet to be recovered.
In response to the theft, the Louvre has implemented several emergency measures to enhance security. This includes replacing the grille used by the criminals, as des Cars aimed to focus on the ambitious “Louvre — New Renaissance” renovation project for the museum. The Louvre, originally a royal palace, houses some of the most renowned artworks globally, including Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic “Mona Lisa.”
In a related development, Annick Lemoine, currently leading the Petit Palais, has been appointed as the new director of the Musée d’Orsay, as outlined in the official journal published on Wednesday. This strategic reshuffling of leadership within France’s major art institutions reflects the government’s commitment to restoring stability and enhancing security following the recent upheavals.
The art community and museum visitors will be watching closely as Leribault steps into his new role, tasked with not only securing the Louvre but also revitalizing its image in the wake of recent events.
