The Crazy In Love singer was modelling a series of outfits for the fashion magazine's 'African Queen' themed 90th anniversary issue, in which she appears on the cover.
But while most of the shots feature Beyoncé wearing glamorous African-inspired clothes and make-up, in some she is wearing dark brown paint.
Critics have likened the paint to an offensive 'blackface', although the make-up choice is apparently a tribute Nigerian musician and political activist Fela Kuti, who inspired the Broadway show Fela!
'Officiel Paris have released a statement regarding the shoot, in which they acknowledge the singer's face was 'voluntarily darkened' but say the images are 'beautiful and inspiring.'
In the statement the magazine said: 'The designs are all reflective of the African influence on fashion this season.'
'As for the artistic make-up, the inspiration came from several African rituals during which paint is used on the face.'
Meanwhile the 29-year-old is confirmed to headline this year's Glastonbury festival, alongside bands U2 and Coldplay.
Beyoncé said after confirming her Sunday night slot: ‘This really is the biggest festival in the world and I cannot wait to perform there.
‘I'm pumped just thinking about that huge audience and soaking up their energy.’
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