LANCÔME: The Louvre, a Source of Inspiration

It was always the intention of the founders of the Louvre Museum, which opened in 1793, to have it be a site where artists could go to study the works of great masters and take inspiration for their own work from those works. Because the study of art history continues to shed light on many aspects of modern life, the Louvre is still considered a “living museum” to this day and serves as an unending wellspring of ideas for artists of all stripes.

For this unusual relationship, Lancôme drew inspiration from Hermaphrodite, Venus de Milo, Victory of Samothrace, Corine, Diana of Gabies, Nymphe with a Scorpion, Echo, Hygieia, and Venus of Arles. Each of these works of art inspired Lisa Eldridge, the Global Creative Director of Lancôme Makeup, to create this makeup collection because of the legends they represent and the stories attached to them.

Lancôme has created a limited edition of skincare and beauty products that are signed “Lancôme x Louvre.” These products were produced with inspiration from nine works from the sculpture department, as well as the lighting and colours of the museum.

“I am thrilled by this first collaboration with Lancôme, which skillfully illustrates the diverse forms of beauty presented by the Louvre’s collections, where cultures and civilizations meet beyond land and time. The choice of the Venus of Milo, Nymphe with a Scorpion, or Diana of Gabies as ambassadors for this campaign brings new perspectives on iconic and inspiring images of antiquity, contrasting them against contemporary representations and standards. The history of art and beauty, its “manufacture,” and its quest are intimately linked. Pop culture, with its moving images, advertising, and social networks permeating our daily lives, often draws on these timeless representations and visuals, sometimes very shrewd, other times ancient. The Louvre Museum’s collections are fascinating in the way they let us see and understand how those standards are interpreted, transformed, and evolved. Through this collaboration, the Louvre, a contemporary art hub, helps write today’s take on beauty.”

Laurence des Cars - President and Director, Louvre Museum