Paris has more than its share of great museums, but also smaller ones where excellence is also the watchword. The Musée de la Vie Romantique (Museum of Romantic Life) is a fine example, with its permanent collection tracing the years of the Romantic movement. This City of Paris museum is also noted for its original and interesting temporary exhibitions and its charming little tea room.
Explore an often-neglected era
A fascinating museum less than 10 minutes from the Hotel Daunou Opera, the Musée de la Vie Romantique places the spotlight on artistic movements that have often been in the Parisian background. The major Parisian museums feature the ground-breaking modern movements, while the Musée de la Vie Romantique allows you to explore the more academic French painting of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.
A multi-disciplinary museum
Located in the former residence of the painter Ary Scheffer, the museum traces the life of the artist, as well as the writer, Georges Sand and the scholar, Ernest Renan, who both had connections to the place. The museum is also a source of fascination for anyone with an interest in 19th century society. Furniture, jewels, objets d’art and paintings can be found in rich profusion, adding considerably to the atmosphere of this house in which Ary Scheffer received the great and good of Paris during the July Monarchy. The museum is situated in the Nouvelle-Athènes quarter, which is itself well worth your attention. In the early 19th century many artists and patrons built their studios and mansions in this district. Eugène Delacroix, Horace Vernet and Théodore Géricault are among the celebrated names known to have frequented this little haven of peace.
Useful information:
Musée de la Vie Romantique – 16 Rue Chaptal, Paris 9th
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:30
