Beneath a skylight’s gentle glow, lies the story of the Musée de l’Orangerie. This Parisian gem began its life not as a museum but as a winter home for citrus trees. Imagine Napoleon III in 1852 needing a place to protect his precious orange trees from the cold. Thus, the Orangerie was built.
The Musée de l’Orangerie’s architecture reflects its initial purpose. The side facing the Seine is made of glass to allow sunlight to reach the trees. In contrast, the north side is nearly windowless to shield them from harsh winds.
After the fall of the Empire in 1870, the Orangerie became state property. It hosted various public events including concerts and art exhibitions. But a new chapter began after World War I.
The State allocated the Orangerie to the Under-Secretariat of State for Fine Arts in 1921. The idea was to exhibit works by living artists. It was then that Claude Monet’s Water Lilies found their permanent home here.
Georges Clemenceau, President of the Council, suggested placing Monet’s Water Lilies at the Orangerie. Monet himself played a key role in the museum’s redesign. He worked closely with architect Camille Lefèvre. Together, they created two oval rooms forming an infinity symbol to house the eight Water Lilies panels. These panels stretch 91 meters in length. Monet insisted on skylights so visitors could view his art in natural light.
Originally named Musée Claude Monet, the Orangerie opened in 1927 shortly after Monet’s death. Later, it was annexed to the Musée du Luxembourg. It was formally renamed Musée National de l’Orangerie des Tuileries.
The Musée de l’Orangerie became attached to the Louvre in 1930. Its west wing then hosted temporary exhibitions. These included Impressionist works and “Peintres de la réalité”. The “Rubens et son temps” exhibition drew a million visitors in 1936.
Later, the Musée de l’Orangerie acquired the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection. Paul Guillaume, an art dealer, wanted to create a museum of French modern art. His widow, Domenica Walter, agreed to display his collection at the Orangerie.
Extensive renovations took place to accommodate the new collection. Additional levels were added to the building. A new staircase designed by Raymond Subes replaced the Water Lilies entrance.
More renovations occurred between 2000 and 2006. These aimed to restore natural light to the Water Lilies rooms. Spaces were created in the basement for the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection.
Today, the Musée de l’Orangerie stands as a testament to art and history. It continues to host dance and piano concerts. The Musée de l’Orangerie links administratively with the Musée d’Orsay. It is a place where Monet’s vision lives on. The Water Lilies continue to inspire awe. They create a serene and peaceful atmosphere for all who visit the Musée de l’Orangerie.