In a startling act of protest, the iconic Mona Lisa painting at the Louvre Museum in Paris became the target of climate activists who threw red pumpkin soup over the artwork’s protective glass. The incident, which occurred on January 28, 2024, saw two women breach a security barrier, launching the soup in an attempt to draw attention to their cause, advocating for a sustainable and healthy food system.
The protesters, associated with the group Riposte Alimentaire, aimed to spotlight the plight of the agricultural system and the hardships faced by farmers. Their chants emphasized the dilemma of choosing between preserving art or ensuring the right to nutritious and sustainable food. This dramatic gesture was part of a broader campaign by the activists, coinciding with ongoing farmer protests in France over low wages, rising costs, and stringent regulations.
Quick to respond, Louvre staff shielded the masterpiece from public view and evacuated the area. Despite the shock, the painting remained unharmed, thanks to its bulletproof glass casing, a protective measure reinforced following previous incidents. The Paris police have since arrested two individuals linked to the protest.
This isn’t the first time the Mona Lisa has been the focus of protest actions. In 2022, the painting was smeared with cake by an individual posing as a disabled elderly woman, also to protest environmental issues. Such acts of protest against renowned artworks have sparked debates about the methods of activism and the protection of cultural heritage.
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