Anna Hartz
France’s historic buildings are filled with objects that tell the story of the country. From museums to presidential palaces, these places hold items that are not only valuable but also symbolic.
In recent months, several thefts from major cultural institutions have raised questions about security. That concern has now reached the heart of French political power.
Stole Valuables One by One Over Time
An employee at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French president, has been arrested for stealing cutlery and porcelain from the palace, reports Ziare. French authorities say the man worked as the person in charge of managing and caring for the palace’s silverware and tableware. He is accused of abusing that position to remove valuable items over time.
According to prosecutors in Paris, the suspect acted with the help of two alleged accomplices. Together, they are accused of trying to sell the stolen items on online resale platforms, including Vinted. The objects included fine tableware, silver cutlery, and antique porcelain used during official state events.
The total value of the stolen items is estimated at close to 40,000 euros, according to reports cited by The Guardian. Many of the pieces came from the famous Sèvres porcelain factory in Paris. This factory has been owned by the French state since 1759 and supplies official tableware for government institutions.
Recognised Missin Items on Online Auction Sites
The investigation began after staff at the Sèvres factory recognized some of the missing items on online auction sites. Police then questioned employees at the Élysée Palace and focused on the staff member responsible for inventory records. Prosecutors say those records suggested the thefts were planned and possibly ongoing.
Investigators later searched the suspect’s home, car, and personal storage spaces. They found around 100 items. These included Sèvres porcelain, a René Lalique statuette, Baccarat champagne glasses, copper cookware, and other valuable objects. Some items were marked with labels such as “French Air Force,” which are not normally available to the public.
The three suspects have been placed under judicial supervision. They are banned from contacting one another. They are also forbidden from accessing auction platforms or continuing their professional duties. They are expected to stand trial in February 2026 on charges of theft and handling stolen goods.
All recovered items have been returned to the Élysée Palace. The case adds to growing unease in France after recent thefts at the Louvre and other museums. In one unresolved case, crown jewels worth an estimated 88 million euros remain missing after a raid in October.
Sources: Ziare
