Handling and Transport of the Cincinnatus Sculpture in the Tuileries Garden, Paris
Bovis Fine Art was recently entrusted with an exceptional handling operation in the heart of Paris: the removal of the Cincinnatus sculpture, located in the Tuileries Garden, to transport it to a specialized workshop for reproduction. This delicate mission once again highlights the expertise of the Bovis Group in handling monumental artworks, even those weakened by time.
A Custom-Made Cage Designed to Preserve the Artwork
For this operation, we used our custom-built metal lifting cage, specifically developed to ensure the artwork’s safety throughout the intervention. Designed by the Bovis Fine Art project manager, developed with our technical foreman, and fabricated in our own metalworking workshop, the structure was then validated by an independent engineering firm to support sculptures weighing up to 3 tonnes. Its design allows for the safe lifting of damaged sculptures without risking further deterioration.
Flawless Execution of the Handling Process
The intervention was carried out by a small, highly skilled team consisting of a team leader, a crane operator, and a specialized art handler. The sculpture, previously prepared by a restorer, was lifted from its base using a crane arm, a lifting platform, and the metal cage. To position the cage beneath the sculpture, steel angles were carefully inserted, allowing the cage to be securely bolted into place. The entire operation was completed without incident, thanks to the precision, foresight, and technical mastery of our teams.
Proven Expertise in Handling Monumental Artworks
As a specialist in fine art handling, Bovis Fine Art is recognized for its ability to manage the relocation of large-scale sculptures and public monuments, even in a single piece and regardless of their condition. Our expertise is built on decades of experience, dedicated engineering, and equipment tailored to the highest technical demands. This project is yet another example of that excellence.
About the Cincinnatus Sculpture
Created by Denis Foyatier between 1832 and 1834, the Cincinnatus sculpture depicts Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, a symbol of civic virtue in Ancient Rome. Called upon in a time of crisis, he left his plough to serve the Republic before returning to his life as an ordinary citizen. Installed in the Tuileries Garden since 1836, this marble sculpture embodies the ideal of selfless service to the public good. Its relocation is part of a heritage preservation effort, ensuring its legacy continues through a faithful reproduction.
Photo credits: Samia Abderrahmani for Groupe Bovis
