French Heritage Organisation Takes State to Court over Notre-Dame Controversy
The Sites & Monuments association has questioned the state’s authority to make decisions beyond ‘conserving and restoring’ the 12th‑century Paris cathedral. Save to My Ocula
French heritage organisation Sites & Monuments have filed an appeal in the Paris administrative court to stop President Emmanuel Macron’s project to replace six of Notre-Dame de Paris’ stained-glass windows with modern designs.
Last December, Macron and Archbishop of Paris Laurent Ulrich designated French artist Claire Tabouret for the task. They explained their desire to add a contemporary touch to the 12th-century cathedral, which was restored after a devastating fire in 2019.
Sites & Monuments filed a complaint on 27 January against the removal of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc’s original stained-glass windows, appealing to their classification as historic monuments.
They challenged the state’s authority to make decisions beyond ‘conserving and restoring’ the historic building, per the act of 29 July 2019, limiting their power to such a task. With this in mind, the organisation questioned the legitimacy of its contract with Tabouret.
Slated for completion by 2026, the project is expected to cost 4 million euros (4.1 million USD). Funds will come from the state budget and donations made toward repairing the cathedral from fire damages.
The outrage is shared by over 279,700 signees from a petition started in December 2023 by journalist Didier Rykner, who founded the French art publication La Tribune de L’Art. —[O]
Main image: Notre-Dame de Paris, 2017. Photo: Creative Commons.
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services