The Louvre is one of the largest and recognizable museums in the world. It holds numerous incredible exhibition throughout the year, more than one could ever seemingly see. This was unique though. Unlike many of the classic antiquities, these contemporary art pieces were provocative. And situated within the Napoleon III apartments.
Aside from a few like the pigs made of rug and literal bunny slippers, Delvoye's pieces were created from precious metals, and in a sense coordinated seamlessly with the French antiques. And yet, once I became aware of their clever placement I could not ignore how bizarre they appeared...
The juxtaposition of order and chaos (or at least free spirited structure), serious wealth and surreal whimsy was unnerving and exciting at the same time. I felt strongly that Napoleon III himself would have been offended by it but it wasn't as if Wim Delvoye was mocking him. It felt more so that Delvoye was poking fun at the late emperor in an attempt to get him to "lighten up." And in that sense, I assume this was the Louvre's intention as well.
Furthermore, it was if both were reminding visitors that although we are in a historic palace, surrounded by stunning antiques and ornate tapestries, we are still very much in the 21st century. To be frank, the value and majesty of archived nostalgia is questioned when one realizes the centerpiece on a gorgeous 17th century table is two bronze deers fornicating.
We are not privileged to be amongst the furniture and art previously owned by monarchs, we deserve to be there. We have the right and the power to challenge their "perfection." Or rather, Delvoye does and we should simply follow suite.
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