In an unusual demonstration for the right to “healthy and sustainable food,” environmental protesters targeted the iconic Mona Lisa at the Louvre in central Paris.
The 16th-century masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci, housed behind protective glass, remained undamaged during the incident.
Two female protesters, affiliated with the group Riposte Alimentaire (Food Counterattack), were captured on video throwing soup at the glass-protected painting. Wearing T-shirts with the slogan “food counterattack,” they confronted the renowned artwork, questioning the prioritization of art over the right to healthy and sustainable food.
“What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food? Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work,” the protesters stated before museum security intervened. Black screens were placed in front of them, and the room was evacuated.
Riposte Alimentaire issued a statement, claiming responsibility for the protest. They highlighted the need to integrate “food into the general social security system” and criticized the current food model for stigmatizing the most vulnerable. The group advocated for a monthly food card worth €150 (£128) for citizens to use on food.
The Louvre confirmed that the incident occurred at around 10:00 local time, and the Salle des Etats, where the Mona Lisa is displayed, was evacuated. No damage was reported, and the room reopened to visitors at 11:30 after cleaning procedures.
France’s Minister for Culture, Rachida Dati, condemned the act, emphasizing that “no cause” could justify targeting the Mona Lisa. She underscored the painting’s significance as part of the country’s heritage belonging to future generations.
This incident follows a similar occurrence in 2022 when an activist threw cake at the Mona Lisa, drawing attention to environmental concerns. The iconic artwork has been protected by safety glass since the early 1950s, following an acid attack. In 2019, the museum upgraded to a more transparent form of bulletproof glass to ensure the painting’s security. The Louvre announced its intention to file a complaint regarding the recent protest.
