The Cirque d'Hiver, a Parisian icon and the world's oldest circus, is about to undergo a remarkable transformation. This historic venue, with its rich history spanning over 170 years, is set to be restored to its original glory, revealing hidden treasures that have been concealed for decades.
Unveiling a Hidden Legacy
The recent discovery of an extraordinary panorama of painted canvas panels, dating back to the 19th century, has sparked excitement and curiosity. These panels, measuring an impressive 6 meters wide and almost 2 meters high, depict scenes of warriors on horseback and celebrate the equestrian arts. Created by renowned painters Nicolas Gosse and Félix-Joseph Barrias, they are a testament to the artistic brilliance of the era.
What makes this discovery even more fascinating is the story behind it. Louis-Sampion Bouglione, co-director and historian of the circus, has been on a quest for decades, delving into archives and wondering about the original appearance of the circus when it first opened its doors in 1852. His father's memories of seeing these panels as a child fueled their hope of rediscovery, and now, their dreams are coming true.
A Comprehensive Restoration
The restoration project is not limited to uncovering these hidden gems. It aims to restore the entire circus to its original 19th-century splendor. Architect Stéphane Millet, who is also overseeing the renovation of the Opéra Garnier's stage, has taken on this ambitious task. He believes that when dealing with such a significant heritage site, it is essential to showcase its full potential.
Millet's vision has gained support from the culture ministry and other authorities, who will fund a project estimated to cost several million euros. The renovation will involve removing the panels for restoration, addressing damage caused by smoke and leaking windows, and restoring the circus's original polygonal structure, complete with its impressive diameter, stained-glass windows, and a wooden roof designed to resemble a tent.
A Family Affair
The Cirque d'Hiver is more than just a circus; it is a family legacy. Louis-Sampion Bouglione comes from a long line of circus owners, with the Bouglione family having owned the circus since 1934. Rosa Bouglione, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 107, left behind an impressive 55 descendants, all of whom are part of the circus family. Today, 20 family members are actively involved in the circus, ranging from the oldest, Émilien Bouglione, at 91, to the youngest, aged just three.
For the Bouglione family, the circus is a way of life, and they have found a balance between work and family. As Bouglione says, "It's family, and everyone is involved in one way or another."
A Juggling Act for the Future
The upcoming renovation is a complex undertaking, requiring careful planning to ensure the circus can continue its winter shows while renovations take place during the summer holidays. Bouglione is confident they can manage this delicate balance, as the circus is a beloved tradition for Parisians. People come as children, then return with their own families, creating a lasting legacy.
As the restoration progresses, we can expect to see the Cirque d'Hiver shine once again, revealing its hidden artistic treasures and preserving its rich history for future generations to enjoy. This project is a testament to the power of heritage and the importance of preserving our cultural legacies.
