Elaine Sciolino

Elaine Sciolino, veteran New York Times Paris bureau chief and author steeped in French history. She reveals why the Louvre is more than the Mona Lisa. Short takes on the 1911 theft, underrated works like Titian’s Man with a Glove, quiet Islamic and Egyptian galleries, insider viewing rooms, crowd-beating timing tips, and surprising behind-the-scenes stories.

Elaine Sciolino, a Paris-based journalist and author, reveals fascinating behind-the-scenes operations at the Louvre, including its Tuesday closures for maintenance and private tours. Richard Rhodes, the last apprentice of the Sienese Freemasons, shares ancient masonry secrets that transform stone into stunning artwork. He discusses the importance of grain orientation, aesthetic corrections in architecture, and the meditative process of chiseling stone. Their insights blend art, culture, and craftsmanship, offering a unique view into the worlds of museums and stonework.

Elaine Sciolino, the former Paris bureau chief of The New York Times, shares her passion for the Louvre in her guide, Adventures in the Louvre. She humorously advises against visiting the museum on an empty stomach or with a full bladder. Sciolino discusses the museum's evolution, its love-hate relationship with the Mona Lisa, and the joys of spontaneous exploration. Her insights reveal how preparation can enhance the experience and transform a potentially overwhelming visit into a delightful adventure. Don't miss her tips for art lovers!