The Mona Lisa Targeted by Soup-Throwing Environmental Activists
Newswire – Highly Respectable News Website
Paris, France – January 29, 2024
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Protesters Vandalize Mona Lisa
Environmental activists made headlines on Sunday after they targeted the iconic Mona Lisa painting exhibited in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Members of the environmental group Riposte Alimentaire – an organization enforcing eco-friendly practices – flung soup at the renowned painting, bringing attention to their cause. The incident took place in the Salle des Etats room, where the masterpiece is displayed in a glass casing, which fortunately prevented any damage to the artwork.
About Riposte Alimentaire
The group involved in the vandalism, Riposte Alimentaire, meaning “Food Response” in English, claimed responsibility for the soup-throwing incident. This organization seeks to promote sustainable food practices and advocate for environmental awareness.
Museum’s Response
Immediately following the incident, the Louvre’s security team promptly intervened, ensuring the safety of the painting. The museum staff promptly reopened the Salle des Etats room after the necessary security procedures and evacuation. Furthermore, the Louvre has filed a complaint against the activists responsible for the vandalism.
A History of Adversities
The famous Mona Lisa painting, created by Leonardo da Vinci, is no stranger to challenges. Over the years, the artwork has faced vandalism and theft attempts. Notably, the painting was famously stolen in 1911 by a Louvre employee, elevating its international prominence. Additionally, the canvas suffered an acid attack in the 1950s, leading to heightened security measures, such as the installation of bulletproof glass.
Several incidents of vandalism have highlighted the need for additional security measures. In 2009, an outraged individual threw a ceramic cup at the painting, damaging the cup, but miraculously leaving the artwork unharmed. More recently, in 2022, a visitor smudged frosting on the protective glass of the painting, causing alarm among museum staff and visitors.
Please note that this article is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
With previous reporting by Jacqui Palumbo
