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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel of Lenoux, located in Laives en Saône-et-Loire, was founded in 1484 by Jehan Geliot, parish priest of Touches and native of the village. The latter, born in Laives, set up this building to serve as a private chapel dedicated to the deceased of his family. The date engraved at the base of the bell tower (1484) probably marks the completion of the works, placing its construction in the 4th quarter of the 15th century, a period characteristic of the flamboyant Gothic.

The architecture of the chapel is distinguished by a unique dogive vaulted span, illuminated by a arched bay at the bedside. The keystone represents the crowning of the Virgin, while the facade, once rich in statues, only preserves that of Saint Fiacre. Inside, murals dated from the late 15th century illustrate religious scenes, such as the Mass of Saint Gregory or St Stephen alongside the founder. These frescoes, framed by a frieze of characters under gothic dais, have been carefully restored.

Ranked a historic monument on 5 July 1996, the chapel benefited from a remarkable restoration, worth to the municipality of Laives the Regional Heritage Prize in 2013. Protected elements include carved oak vants from the entrance door, lava roof, and all interior decorations. Today, it is a communal property that bears witness to the local religious patronage and the Burgundy sacred art of the Renaissance.

Historical sources underline its initial role as a family funeral chapel, typical of the private foundations of the time. The trompe-l'oeil paintings of the vault, evoking a flamboyant reamping, as well as the floral and leafy motifs at the bottom of the walls, reflect the influence of Burgundy workshops. The chapel, though modest by its size, thus embodies a preserved artistic and spiritual heritage, open to visit within the framework of the communal heritage.

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