Louvre Flooding Causes Extensive Damage to Hundreds of Artworks
Flooding at the Louvre in Paris caused significant damage to numerous artworks. A pipe burst, affecting a section of the Egyptian antiquities library, as confirmed by the museum’s deputy general administrator, Francis Steinbock.
Louvre Flooding Incident Overview
Last week, flooding compromised between 300 to 400 works in the Egyptian antiquities section. Steinbock reported this information during an interview with BFM TV. A complete assessment of the impacted items is currently underway.
Details on Damaged Works
Many of the damaged works include historical books, some dating back to the late 19th century. Some volumes sustained water damage and are undergoing treatment to restore them. The restoration process involves drying the books page by page using Buffard paper and specially modified plants.
- Damaged items include:
- Books from the late 19th century
- Visual periodicals
- Archaeology journals used by Egyptologists and researchers
Upcoming Renovations
Steinbock indicated that the area affected by the flooding is scheduled for renovations. A major upgrade to the museum’s ventilation and heating system is set to commence in September.
Recent Security Issues
This incident adds to the series of challenges faced by the Louvre, the world’s most visited museum. Just two months prior, a significant jewelry heist took place on October 19, where thieves stole eight of France’s crown jewels, valued at approximately 88 million euros (about $102 million).
Updates on the Jewelry Theft
Law enforcement efforts to recover the stolen items are still ongoing. Four individuals believed to be involved in the heist were arrested, with charges including robbery by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. One suspect was apprehended last month, while DNA evidence linked three others to the crime scene.
Additionally, a woman faced preliminary charges of complicity in the theft after being arrested in October. She has denied any wrongdoing.
