Sacré Bleu: A Comedy d'Art Summary & Key Insights

Christopher Moore's "Sacré Bleu: A Comedy d'Art" follows the unlikely detective work of artist-turned-art-restorer, Henri Picquart, a man haunted by a past trauma involving a stolen painting. His life is upended when a series of bizarre, meticulously planned murders rocks the Parisian art scene. Each victim, a renowned Impressionist painter, is found posed in a ridiculously theatrical manner, a vibrant canvas of their own demise.

The murders are connected by a cryptic riddle hidden within the victims' paintings, a challenge that only Henri, with his peculiar blend of artistic knowledge and obsessive attention to detail, can decipher. His investigation leads him down a rabbit hole of art forgery, secret societies, and long-forgotten artistic rivalries. Central to the mystery are the stolen paintings, themselves cleverly concealed elements within the larger narrative.

Henri’s investigation is interwoven with the antics of a colourful cast of characters. There's Lulu, a fiercely independent and resourceful young woman who becomes Henri's reluctant accomplice, offering both practical assistance and a refreshing counterpoint to his melancholy. Then there's the enigmatic and shadowy Inspector Michel, the somewhat incompetent but endearing police officer assigned to the case. Their contrasting approaches and personalities generate much of the novel's humour.

The murders are not merely random acts of violence; they are meticulously crafted performances, each a commentary on the art itself and the societal pressures surrounding it. The killer, whose identity remains concealed until the thrilling climax, uses the art world as their stage, manipulating events to showcase their profound (if deranged) understanding of Impressionism.

Underlying the comedic elements and thrilling plot is a commentary on the nature of art, its value, and the often-cutthroat world of artistic creation. Moore explores the tension between originality and imitation, the commercialization of art, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect or exploit their artistic legacy. The novel also delves into themes of trauma, obsession, and the redemptive power of finding purpose and connection even amidst extraordinary circumstances.

Ultimately, "Sacré Bleu" is a witty and inventive murder mystery that successfully blends historical fiction with slapstick humour. It offers a playful yet insightful exploration of the art world, showcasing Moore's signature irreverent style and his ability to weave together seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive and highly entertaining narrative. The solution to the mystery is both surprising and satisfying, leaving the reader with a renewed appreciation for the enduring power of art and the unexpected places it can lead.