Louvre Museum arrests two artists for unauthorized display near Mona Lisa

Two German artists were arrested at the Louvre Museum in Paris on September 19 after attaching two canvases to a wall in the Salle des États, the room housing Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. The artworks, each measuring approximately 12 by 9 inches, were secured to the wall using adhesive tape. One painting depicted one of the artists in a suit of armor, while the other showed both artists with a woman.

Museum security detained the individuals before local police were called to make the arrests. The suspects stated to authorities that the act was a prank carried out “for enjoyment.” While the Mona Lisa remained undamaged behind its protective glass, officials reported minor damage to the museum wall. The artists are expected to face legal proceedings following an assessment of the damage and a formal complaint from the museum.