The Orangerie Museum
Western Europe Travel Paris Things to do,
Don’t miss the Orangerie Museum, where you can see works by Impressionist painters in one place.
The museum also features modern paintings.
Over View :
The Orangerie Museum, located in Paris, France, is renowned for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artworks. Situated in the picturesque Tuileries Garden, the museum is housed in a historic building that was originally constructed in the 19th century as a greenhouse for orange trees (hence the name “Orangerie”).
The Musée d’Orangerie confidently showcases Claude Monet’s Water Lilies series, which elegantly adorns the curved walls of the museum’s oval gallery. These monumental paintings provide visitors with an immersive experience that confidently transports them to Monet’s tranquil garden in Giverny. The museum also confidently features works by other prominent artists of the Impressionist movement, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, and Edgar Degas.
The Orangerie hosts exhibitions that specialize in exploring different aspects of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, giving visitors a unique opportunity to delve deeper into this influential art movement.
With its dazzling setting, elite assortments, and dynamic presentations, the Musée d’Orangerie keeps on enrapturing workmanship darlings all over the planet, making it a must-visit objective for anyone with any interest in its rich history.
History :
The ‘musee de l’Orangerie’ is appropriately named as it is housed in a former orangery built in 1852 to protect citrus fruits from the ‘jardin des Tuileries’ during winter. The stone structure was built in length and features glass on the Seine-facing south side and blocks on the north side facing the garden to maximize insulation. The building’s simple and exemplary design blends perfectly with its surroundings.
It was converted into a warehouse, military barracks, and later used for various events such as sports, music, and even athletics. In 1921, the former orangery came under the control of the des Beaux-Arts organization. The association had big plans for the orangery. They intended to use it to house a piece of the ‘musee du Luxembourg’, which is now the Public Gallery of Contemporary Art.
Featured Collections :
Paul Guillaume & Jean Walter Collection
1. About the Collectors:
Paul Guillaume (1891–1934) was a prominent art dealer in early 20th-century Paris. He not only amassed a significant collection of modern paintings but also supported struggling artists, transitioning from an automobile mechanic to a renowned art dealer. Guillaume’s interest in African art led him to import and trade African artworks, building connections with artists like Picasso through his association with poet Guillaume Apollinaire. After Guillaume’s death, his widow, Domenica, married architect Jean Walter, who collaborated with her to expand and refine the collection.
2. Collection Highlights:
Total Works: 144
Featured Artists: Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, Henri Rousseau, Henri Matisse, Amedeo Modigliani, Chaim Soutine, Marie Laurencin, Maurice Utrillo, André Derain, Pablo Picasso.
3. Artworks Breakdown:
Pierre-Auguste Renoir: 16 works
Claude Monet: 3 works
Paul Cézanne: 13 works
Henri Rousseau: 13 works
Henri Matisse: 10 works
Amedeo Modigliani: 5 works
Chaim Soutine: 9 works
Marie Laurencin: 10 works
Maurice Utrillo: 3 works
André Derain: 6 works
Pablo Picasso: 6 works
4. Legacy:
The collection, named the “Walter and Guillaume Collection” after the two husbands of Domenica, was donated to the French government and began to be exhibited at the Orangerie Museum in 1965. It was permanently commissioned in 1984, remaining a significant part of the museum’s holdings, showcasing the diversity and richness of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
Claude Monet Collection
1. About the Artist:
Claude Monet, the pioneering Impressionist painter, is synonymous with the movement itself. His groundbreaking works paved the way for Impressionism, and his dedication to capturing light and nature continues to inspire art lovers worldwide.
2. Water Lily Series:
Eight pieces of Monet’s iconic Water Lily series are showcased in two specially designed oval rooms at the Orangerie Museum.
2-1 Giverny Connection:
Monet settled in Giverny in 1890, where he immersed himself in painting the water lilies on his pond for nearly three decades until his passing.
2-2 Artistic Process:
Monet meticulously tended to his ponds, bridges, and gardens, studying the ever-changing colors influenced by natural light. Despite facing challenges such as chronic cataracts, he remained dedicated to his water lily series, producing over 250 paintings.
Monet’s determination and artistic vision ensured the preservation and global recognition of his water lily series, cementing his status as one of the most influential artists in history.
Marie Laurencin Collection
1. About the Artist:
Marie Laurencin, regarded as one of the foremost female painters of the early 20th century, is celebrated for her distinctive style and sensitivity. Her works offer a unique perspective that diverges from the dominant artistic trends of her time, including Impressionism and emerging Cubism.
2. Featured Works:
2-1 Mademoiselle CoCo Chanel:
This renowned painting depicts Coco Chanel, the iconic French fashion designer, as a model. Marie Laurencin’s signature muted tones and pastel colors imbue the work with a subtle yet captivating charm.
2-2 Spanish Dancers:
Description: Considered one of Laurencin’s masterpieces, “Spanish Dancers” skillfully juxtaposes feminine, sensual colors with the enigmatic expressions of its subjects. The painting exudes a sense of hidden melancholy and introspection.
2-3 Madame Paul Guillaume:
Another notable work by Laurencin, “Madame Paul Guillaume,” captures the essence of its subject with delicacy and grace. The painting offers a glimpse into the world of the influential art dealer Paul Guillaume and his circle.
2-4 Women with a Dog:
“Women with a Dog” is among Marie Laurencin’s representative works, showcasing her ability to portray feminine beauty and emotion with a subtle touch. The painting invites viewers to contemplate the complex interplay of human relationships and emotions.
Experience the allure of Laurencin’s paintings and explore the nuances of her unique artistic vision during your visit to the museum.
Visiting Detail:
The Orangerie Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Monet’s mesmerizing Water Lily series, providing a serene and contemplative experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore these masterpieces firsthand and witness the beauty of Monet’s artistic genius.
Name : Musée de l’Orangerie
Location : Jardin des Tuileries 75001 Paris, France
Founded : 1927
Annual attendance : Approximately 500,000
Official Website : www.musee-orangerie.fr
