Odiot’s Masterpiece for Notre-Dame de Paris Returns to the Spotlight
As Notre-Dame Cathedral reopens in December 2024, one of its historic treasures — the statue of the Virgin and Child created in 1826 by Charles-Nicolas Odiot — is once again in the public eye.
Charles-Nicolas Odiot, Virgin and Child known as of Charles X. Treasury of Notre-Dame Cathedral © Musée du Louvre, Guillaume Benoit
Honoring a Royal Vow
The story of this extraordinary piece begins with a solemn pledge made by King Louis XIII in 1638. In gratitude for the birth of his heir, the future Louis XIV, the king consecrated France to the Virgin Mary and promised to erect a grand altar in her honor at Notre-Dame de Paris. This vow was fulfilled by Louis XIV — but nearly two centuries later, two other monarchs would seek to honor it anew.
In 1819, King Louis XVIII commissioned a processional statue of the Virgin and Child for the cathedral, entrusting the project to the renowned Parisian silversmith Charles-Nicolas Odiot. Financial constraints delayed its creation, and the work was finally completed under King Charles X in 1826. To optimize costs, Odiot’s team used a mold taken from an existing Virgin at Saint-Séverin, ensuring both artistic fidelity and craftsmanship of the highest order.
A Tumultuous Journey
The statue’s history reflects the turbulent path of France itself.
In 1831, during political unrest, it was thrown from a window of the archbishop’s palace.
In 1847, it narrowly escaped destruction.
In 1856, it was restored for the baptism of the Prince Imperial, son of Napoleon III.
For generations, this Odiot masterpiece played a central role in the 15 August processions for the Feast of the Assumption, continuing in liturgical use until the tragic fire of April 2019.
A Living Heritage
Now preserved in the Trésor de Notre-Dame and currently presented at the Louvre Museum as part of Le Trésor de Notre-Dame de Paris exhibition, the statue stands as a testament to Odiot’s enduring legacy — uniting royal patronage, religious devotion, and exceptional French craftsmanship.
With the cathedral’s reopening, this historic creation by Charles-Nicolas Odiot is once again linked to the spiritual and cultural heart of Paris, reaffirming our Maison’s place in the nation’s artistic heritage.
References:
· Musée du Louvre – Quand deux rois veulent honorer le vœu de Louis XIII
· Musée du Louvre – Press Kit: Le Trésor de Notre-Dame de Paris
· Archives Odiot