VERSAILLES - A history buff and physician, Herve joined the legions of private donors taking part in the palace's "Adopt-a-Statue" programme to raise funds for restoration work at the 17th-century home of Louis XIV, the Sun King.

"We just couldn't let Asclepios stand there covered in moss," said Herve jokingly about his decision. "He's the god of medicine and I figured I had to choose him."

For the past four years, Versailles' directors have been seeking out generous patrons willing to part with 3,000 to 30,000 euros (4,200 to 42,000 dollars) to help restore one of the works on the majestic property.

Two million euros in private donations have been raised so far, giving 86 statues and vases a new lease on life at Versailles, one of France's most visited tourist sites.

After just a few months of work, Asclepios has lost his greyish complexion and was returned to his prime spot near the Grand Trianon, the king's garden retreat.

"He looks magnificent," beamed Herve. "He stands proud with an intelligent gaze... I'm very pleased."

A world heritage site on the western fringe of Paris, the Chateau de Versailles launched a vast, 20-year restoration programme in 2003 that draws heavily on high-profile sponsorship from private companies and individuals.

Major restoration works completed so far include the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's pastoral hideaway on the palace grounds, the royal gate torn down during the French Revolution and the Hall of Mirrors.
Versailles' directors had a successful first experience with public funding appeals in 1999 after a severe storm uprooted thousands of trees, many of which were rare species.

With the "Adopt-a-Tree" scheme, 10,000 new trees were planted through private donations of 150 euros each.

Last month, the "Adopt-a-Bench" scheme was announced to restore the grounds' 170 benches, some of which feature intricate works of carved stone and marble.

Sponsors are asked to donate 3,800 euros (5,300 dollars) in exchange for a small plaque bearing their name at the foot of the bench.

With her contribution, Paris area lawyer Catherine Posokhow allowed a statue of Apollo languishing near the Mirror Pool to recover a finger and part of its cape.

"I have to pay taxes and this way, I know where my money is going," she said.

Posokhow said the fund-raising programmes were not drawing just wealthy patrons and that many works are being restored through a collection of smaller 150-euro donations given to the Friends of Versailles support group.

"It's for all sizes of pocketbooks," she said.

More than three million tourists visit Versailles each year, admiring room-after-room of fine chandeliers, priceless frescoes and gold leaf adornments.

Louis XIII used Versailles as a hunting lodge long before his son expanded it in the late 17th century, moving the court and government of France there in 1682.

AFP/Expatica