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Belgian TikTokers Breach Louvre, Hang Self-Portrait in Mona Lisa Room

The stunt renewed scrutiny of Louvre security already under question after the October 19 crown‑jewels robbery.

Overview

  • Belgian creators identified as Neal (also reported as Nick) and Senne entered the Salle des États and mounted a framed photo of themselves near the Mona Lisa.
  • They carried a rolled print in a shopping bag and a frame made from disassembled Lego pieces, and one admitted pulling their bag from the X-ray belt before scanning had finished.
  • Their plan involved assembling the frame and fixing the portrait to the wall in under 30 seconds; guards and closing time kept them from placing it directly beside the painting.
  • The action was documented on TikTok and Instagram, where the video quickly drew tens of thousands of views.
  • Coverage notes the episode follows the October 19 theft of crown jewels valued at €88 million, and the Louvre also announced closures in the Sully quadrilateral, including the Galerie Campana, due to fragile beams and staff relocations.