The VERSAILLES Apollo's Chariot Fountain was lifted from its base in the sumptuous gardens of the Palace of Versailles on Tuesday ahead of an 18 month restoration of the gilded lead sculpture celebrating the Greek god.
It is the first time that the iconic artwork of Jean-Baptiste Tuby has been removed from its basin since it was placed there in 1671 during the reign of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King.
The restoration work had been limited to its surface until now.
Apollo suffered from the impact of time Jacques Moulin, head architect at Versailles, told Reuters.
Moulin explained that the metal structures that have been supporting the fountain for more than three centuries have rusted and warped, leaving the fountain in need of critical remedial work.
The damage is not caused by the lead but the metallic structures in each sculpture. The restoration was considered urgent 10 years ago, as you can see the damage on the sculptures, said Catherine Pegard, president of Chateau de Versailles.
The restoration work will consist of disassembling the statues, with the 13 sculptures being restored and re-gilded, while the stone base will be strengthened.
We are preparing for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. With the horse riding events happening here, we'll have Apollo's Chariot in majestic and flamboyant gold, as a backdrop for the Games Pegard said.