Futur musée du Grand Siècle

Can you imagine a museum dedicated to the grandeur of 17th-century France? Right here, at the Futur musée du Grand Siècle, that dream is becoming a reality. The museum, set to open in 2026, is housed in the former Sully Barracks. These barracks have a fascinating history of their own. Originally built between 1825 and 1827, they housed King Charles X’s guards. The Futur musée du Grand Siècle will offer a complete panorama of 17th-century French civilization. The museum’s collection will span the period from Henri IV to the Regency (1590-1725). The museum will feature paintings, sculptures, furniture, engravings, medals, and other decorative arts. This extensive collection is largely thanks to the generous donation of Pierre Rosenberg, a member of the Académie Française and former director of the Louvre. This includes over 600 paintings, over 3500 drawings, and even a fascinating collection of Murano glass animals. The Futur musée du Grand Siècle isn’t just about displaying beautiful objects. It also houses the Nicolas Poussin Research Center. This center will include Rosenberg’s vast library, one of the most complete in the world for 17th-century French and Italian art. It will be a place for scholars to delve deeper into the history and artistry of the Grand Siècle. Beyond the main museum and research center, a “Cabinet of Collectors” will showcase Pierre Rosenberg’s personal collection in its entirety. This space will eventually feature other private collections, offering a unique insight into the minds of art collectors and how they assemble their treasures. So, the next time you’re in Saint-Cloud, be sure to visit the Futur musée du Grand Siècle. It promises a captivating journey through 17th-century France, where art, history, and scholarship intertwine.