Precision Handling and Exceptional Lifting in the Tuileries Garden, Paris

Bovis Group expertise at the service of monumental heritage

The Bovis Group recently carried out a highly specialized handling operation in one of Paris’s most iconic locations: the Tuileries Garden. The objective of this technical intervention was to carefully detach the Cincinnatus sculpture—anchored to its pedestal since the 19th century—and safely transport it to a reproduction workshop.

A custom lifting system for a vulnerable artwork

This mission required the full scope of Bovis Group’s expertise in fine handling, controlled lifting, and secure transfer of sensitive, heavy loads. Despite its substantial weight (nearly 3 tonnes), the sculpture’s deteriorated condition demanded the utmost caution during every phase of manipulation. Any uncalibrated movement could have jeopardized its structural integrity.

To meet this challenge, our teams designed a custom-made metal lifting cage, both protective and tailored to the constraints of the piece. Conceived by our project manager, developed in collaboration with our technical foreman, and manufactured in our in-house metalworking workshop, the structure was certified by an independent engineering office to ensure optimal performance. It enabled a smooth and gradual lift, avoiding undue mechanical stress and preventing any risk of cracking or further damage.

A logistical operation of the highest precision

The mission was executed by a compact yet expert team, composed of a team leader, crane operator, and specialized handler. The artwork, prepped in advance by a restorer, was carefully lifted using a crane arm, aerial work platform, and the custom cage, specifically designed to align with the sculpture’s shape and center of gravity.

To position the cage beneath the piece, steel angles were inserted with millimetric precision, allowing the structure to be securely anchored without applying lateral pressure. Every step was carried out with constant vigilance, combining mastery of technique with real-time adaptability.

Bovis excellence in handling heavy and fragile objects

This operation once again highlights the Bovis Group’s ability to manage the relocation of monumental yet delicate objects, with an approach that fuses engineering precision, technical expertise, and respect for heritage constraints. With its in-house design office, specialized workshops (metalwork and crating), and highly trained teams, Bovis develops and deploys custom handling and lifting solutions, even in the most challenging environments.

Each project is a new demonstration of excellence—where logistical rigor meets the sensitivity of the objects entrusted to us.

Photo credits: Samia Abderrahmani for Groupe Bovis