Having just read "The Rape of Europa" for the second time, I needed to commune with the Winged Victory at the Louvre. Evelyn had mentioned that she'd heard that it was being refurbished, so it might not be there. But, I was in luck. Not only was it there and beautifully refurbished, but the gargantuan staircase leading up to her had been refurbished too.
Seeing her brought tears to my eyes again. Every time I read "Rape of Europa" or watch the documentary by the same name, I cry. There are photos and scenes that show the dismantling of the Winged Victory so it can be removed from the Louvre and Paris to be protected from the Nazis during WWII. To see her being eased down that staircase on wooden planks, surrounded by a makeshift wooden cart; she has become my symbol of the importance of art and culture and the profound necessity and responsiblity for its protection.
I've been to the Louvre many times before. On Wednesday, it was only me and the Winged Victory. With the wonder of my Carte Musee: I could get in as easily as possible; make my way to her; shoot my shots; and, be on my way. That's my girl. She was enough for me.
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