On Tuesday, July 2, HRH Princess Caroline of Hanover inaugurated the restored underwater ceramic decorations by Roger Capron in the Galerie des Salines. This momentous event marked the culmination of a meticulous conservation and restoration project that breathed new life into Capron’s artistic masterpiece, originally created in 1968.
Roger Capron’s work, composed of twenty-nine enamelled terracotta panels, offers a stylized and vibrant depiction of the Mediterranean seabed, featuring fish, algae, and crustaceans. These panels, initially installed on the facades beneath the Larvotto promenade, have been a significant part of Monaco’s cultural heritage for decades.
The restoration process began in September 2019, coinciding with the restructuring of Larvotto beach. The project involved a collaborative effort led by the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (NMNM), in conjunction with the Department of Cultural Affairs, the Heritage Institute, the Department of Public Works, and the Reserve – Collection Management. The goal was to carefully remove, restore, and reinstall the twelve remaining panels, ensuring they were preserved for future generations to appreciate.
Born in 1922 and trained at the École des Arts Appliqués in Paris, Roger Capron was a pivotal figure in the post-war revival of ceramics. In 1952, he established his own factory in Vallauris, a region known for its rich ceramic tradition. Capron’s unique approach seamlessly blended artistic vision with industrial processes, resulting in timeless creations that have graced numerous prestigious locations.
Among Capron’s notable works are pieces for the Cannes maritime station and the Byblos in Saint-Tropez. Throughout his illustrious career, he garnered numerous accolades, including the gold medal at the 10th Milan Triennale in 1954. His contributions to the world of ceramics have been celebrated in various exhibitions, with a significant retrospective held in 2003 at the Musée National de la Céramique in Sèvres.
The inauguration of the restored panels in the Galerie des Salines is a testament to Roger Capron’s enduring legacy and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Princess Caroline’s presence at the event underscored the significance of this restoration, highlighting Monaco’s commitment to safeguarding its artistic treasures.
As visitors now marvel at the restored underwater scenes, they are not only witnessing the beauty of Capron’s work but also the result of a dedicated effort to honor and preserve the artistry of the past. This successful restoration project serves as an inspiring example of the power of collaboration and the enduring value of cultural preservation.
