The Idol

E23

|

The Idol

This episode of Art Investigation traces the enigmatic journey of “the Idol” through the centuries, a statuette of uncertain origins. Its acquisition in the 18th century by the Breton art lover Christophe-Paul de Robien for his curiosity cabinet only adds to the mystery. Eager to learn more about this piece, he gathered little information, to his great dismay. Indeed, at the time, little or nothing was known about this statuette. During the French Revolution, his collection of more than 8,000 pieces was seized by the state. “The idol” was then kept in the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Rennes. With no certainty as to its origins, it was finally forgotten for many decades. It was not until the 1990s that the piece reappeared, crushed under a cupboard. Its restoration prompted experts to carry out more in-depth analyses. The results will allow the secrets of the statuette to be discovered.

Duration : 26 mins

Producer : Eclectic Production

Production year : 2014

Production country : France