This distinction was presented last November during the Academy's solemn back-to-school session, under the prestigious dome of the Institut de France in Paris. Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol, Mayor of Rouen and President of the Rouen Normandy Metropolis, as well as Bertrand Bellanger, President of the Department of Seine-Maritime, expressed their satisfaction with this recognition, emphasizing the importance of these emblematic figures for the promotion local heritage. The Le Masson brothers, key figures in Rouen culture, contributed to the influence of the city and the region through their respective works: Louis as an architect and François as a sculptor.
Originally from Vieille-Lyre, 80 km from Rouen, the two brothers have maintained a strong link with their native land. Louis Le Masson (1743-1829) was an eminent architect, playing a crucial role in the reconstruction of Seine-Maritime between 1795 and 1813. His contributions, documented in the Departmental Archives, include numerous signed plans. His brother, François Masson (1745-1807), sculptor, also left his mark in Rouen, notably with a bust of Clémentine Beugnot, daughter of the city's first prefect. The Museum of Fine Arts preserves several of his works, including a plaster of Flora, the marble of which cannot be found.
Several upcoming exhibitions
To celebrate these artists, the two winning institutions are planning several initiatives for fall 2025. An exhibition entitled “Rouen, from one revolution to another” will be organized at the Grammont cultural center, extending a previous exhibition on the history of the city. Accompanied by a publication, it will highlight the urban transformations of the 19th century, with particular attention to the achievements of Louis Le Masson. At the same time, an exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts will bring together the works of François Masson, including loaned pieces and documents from the Archives.
A special day dedicated to the Le Masson brothers, in collaboration with the Académie des Sciences, Belles-Lettres et Arts de Rouen, is also planned for November 2025. This day will include guided tours, conferences led by experts such as Lionel Arsac and Vincent Maroteaux, as well as a musical moment with the Poème Harmonique, which will resonate in the Corneille Chapel, a place dear to Louis Le Masson.
Finally, the special price will support the restoration and digitization of Louis Le Masson's plans, as well as the cleaning of François Masson's plasterwork, thus enriching the artistic heritage of the region.
