Marc Gauthier, who died on 16 December 2018, was inspector general of archaeology and one of the precursors of rescue archaeology in the 1980s. He was at the origin of many reforms that changed the profession of archaeologist.
He was one of the four European experts involved in the design and writing of the European Convention on Archaeology, known as the Malta Convention, which laid down the rules for preventive archaeology.
His numerous reports led the Ministry of Culture to reform the scientific control of archaeology. It was he who conceived the creation of CIRA (now CTRA {Interregional Commission for Archaeological Research} and who envisioned the National Council for Archaeological Research in its present form.
Until 1984, Marc Gauthier was director of historical antiquities in Aquitaine and then director of antiquities in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur before joining the general inspection of archaeology. When he retired, he chaired the Lascaux scientific committee and played a decisive role in ensuring that the best cave conservation solutions were implemented.
Marc Gauthier was a Knight of the Legion of Honour, a Knight of the National Order of Merit and an Officer of Arts and Letters.
His lofty idea of public service made Marc Gauthier a staunch defender of archaeologists.
The Minister of Culture joins the emotions of the archaeologist and curatorial community. He sends his deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.