Post-War Unwrapping of the Mona Lisa, 1945

In the tumult of World War II, preserving precious artifacts became paramount, none more so than the illustrious Mona Lisa. Subjected to theft on multiple occasions before its concealment, the famed painting faced imminent danger. Director Jacques Jaujard of France’s National Museums devised a cunning plan to ensure their safety.

Seizing an opportune moment on August 25, 1939, Jaujard clandestinely closed the Louvre, citing “repairs.” With the signing of the Nonaggression Pact between Germany and the Soviet Union, Jaujard swiftly orchestrated the removal of statues and paintings from their frames. Carefully packed into marked wooden crates, these treasures were whisked away to the safety of the Loire Valley.