Reims Cathedral, where Fujita was baptized as a Catholic
Reims, the capital of the Champagne region in northeastern France, is a city steeped in history, art, and culture. Towering in the center is Reims Cathedral, built in the 13th century, where the coronations of French kings have been held for centuries, and the majestic stained glass windows shining in the light captivate visitors. Completed after approximately 200 years of construction, the cathedral is known as a masterpiece of northern French Gothic architecture and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 20th century, stained glass by Chagall was added, and the breath of modern art blends seamlessly with its long history.
Image: ©Ville de Reims, ©AD GrandReims
It was here, on October 14, 1959, that Foujita was baptized into the Catholic Church. It was here, on October 14, 1959, that he was given the baptismal name Léonard Foujita, after his beloved Leonardo da Vinci. Madonna and Child, which will be on public display in Karuizawa for the first time, is a precious work that Foujita donated to Reims Cathedral as an expression of gratitude. Four adorable angels surround Mary, holding the infant Jesus to her chest, with a serene expression on her face. Here, Foujita inscribed the date of his baptism and the name "Léonard Foujita." This work evokes Foujita's determination to open the door to a new life.
Image of the work: "Madonna and Child" 1959 Ink, ink (watercolor), gold leaf, oil on canvas. Collection of Reims Cathedral. Deposited at the Museum of Fine Arts of Reims.
Vierge à l'Enfant (1959), Musée des Beaux-Arts / photo : Corentin Le Goff