New Chair Named for Château de Versailles Ends Controversy
In a move that has brought closure to a longstanding controversy, Christophe Leribault, the current director of Paris’s Musée d’Orsay, has been appointed as the new chair of the Château de Versailles. Leribault’s nomination, announced by the government on Wednesday 21 February, signifies a significant shift in leadership at the historic palace, following the tenure of his predecessor Catherine Pégard, 69, who remained in her position three years past the mandatory retirement age under French law.
A Victory for Curators
Christophe Leribault, 60, an esteemed art historian specialising in the 18th and 19th centuries, brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his new role. Having previously led the Petit Palais in Paris for nine years before assuming his position at the Musée d’Orsay in 2022, Leribault is widely respected among his colleagues. His appointment marks a symbolic victory for curators, as he joins the ranks of art historians heading all major French museums, including the Louvre, the Pompidou Center, and Quai Branly.
Controversy Surrounding Pégard’s Tenure
The controversy surrounding Leribault’s predecessor, Catherine Pégard, stemmed from her prolonged stay at the Château de Versailles beyond the mandated retirement age. Despite her third and final mandate expiring in March 2021, Pégard was asked by French President Emmanuel Macron to stay on temporarily, prompting objections from the Senate and the Cour des comptes. Critics raised concerns over what they deemed a “misuse of power” in allowing Pégard to remain in her position.
Legacy of Pégard’s Leadership
During Catherine Pégard’s tenure, significant renovations and restorations were undertaken at the Château de Versailles, resulting in the opening of previously inaccessible areas to the public. Galleries, royal apartments, private cabinets, and pavilions within the palace’s grounds were all made accessible to visitors. Despite the controversy surrounding her prolonged stay, Pégard oversaw improvements in visitor experiences and increased attendance levels, with tourist numbers reaching eight million annually.
Leribault’s Achievements and Vision
In a statement issued by France’s culture minister Rachida Dati, Leribault’s accomplishments at the Musée d’Orsay were highlighted, including his efforts to increase visitor numbers and diversify the museum’s offerings. Under his leadership, French visitor numbers surged, reaching record levels. Leribault’s commitment to making art accessible and engaging is evidenced by initiatives such as loaning artworks to institutions across France and avoiding price increases for museum entry.
Looking Ahead
As Christophe Leribault assumes his new role at the Château de Versailles, he brings with him a vision for continued innovation and excellence in museum management. With plans for a ten-year renovation of the king’s apartment set to commence in 2026, Leribault is poised to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor and further enhance the cultural significance of this historic landmark.
Feature Image Courtesy: Artforum
