E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Louvre [Paris].
A corruption of Lupara, as it is called in old title-deeds.
1
Dagobert is said to have built here a hunting-seat, the nucleus of the present magnificent pile of buildings.
2
“He’ll make your Paris Louvre shake for it.”
Shakespeare: Henry V, ii. 4.
Louvre. The tower or turret of a building like a belfry, originally designed for a sort of chimney to let out the smoke. (French, l’ouvert, the opening.)
3
Louvre boards in churches. Before chimneys were used, holes were left in the roof, called loovers or leuver holes. From the French l’ouvert (the open boards).
