Louvre's Tiara: Rouchomovsky's Fake Artifact

In 1896, the Louvre purchased the alleged ancient Tiara of Saitaphernes, presented by Russian art dealer Schapschelle Hochmann. Despite doubts from archaeologists, the Louvre displayed the artifact for six years before a 1903 article in Le Matin exposed Israel Rouchomovsky as the real creator, unaware of the deception. The revelation led to public backlash against Hochmann and the Louvre, while Rouchomovsky gained acclaim as a skilled goldsmith.