Marvelous isn’t it? This stunning building before us is the Maison des Arts formerly known as the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. It stands proudly near Place des Terreaux a testament to Lyon’s rich artistic heritage.
The Maison des Arts’ story begins not with a grand opening but with survival. During the French Revolution its proximity to the city hall spared it from destruction. In 1792 it was chosen to house medals bronzes and other artistic treasures. A decree in 1801 established painting collections in fifteen French cities. Lyon’s museum was born fulfilling a desire to celebrate its Roman past and support its struggling silk industry.
The Louvre Museum generously sent 110 paintings. Masterpieces like Rubens’ Adoration of the Magi and Le Guerchin’s Circumcision found a home here. The 19th century saw the building bustling with activity. The museums of painting archeology and natural history shared space with the School of Fine Arts and the Municipal Library. Think of this place teeming with scholars artists and students all under one roof!
Architect R Dardel enhanced the museum in 1834 adding a sumptuous decor that remains in the Medal Room. The mid-century saw Lyon’s painting school flourish. New works from the French state including Delacroix’s Last Words of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius enriched the collection.
A golden age followed. Architect A Hirsch extensively renovated the building garden and cloister. He dramatically restructured the south wing to showcase preparatory drawings by P Chenavard for the Pantheon in Paris. The monumental staircase was decorated by Puvis de Chavannes a native of Lyon.
The museum’s ambitious acquisition policy continued. Curators purchased works in Paris Rome Florence and beyond. Greek and Roman art medieval and Renaissance pieces Islamic art and 19th-century paintings joined the collection.
The early 20th century saw the departure of some institutions. The Museum of Natural History left in 1914. The School of Fine Arts followed in 1935. In 1921 works relating to Lyon’s history were transferred to the Gadagne Museum. Yet the Maison des Arts continued to thrive.
Post-World War II major exhibitions boosted acquisitions. Works by Picasso and Matisse joined the collection. Bequests such as Guimard’s Bedroom further expanded its holdings.
The 1990s brought a major renovation. The museum remained open to the public during the five-phase project. Today the Maison des Arts boasts 14500 square meters with collections spread across 70 rooms. It’s a stunning journey through art and history.
So take a moment to absorb this place’s grandeur. Its walls whisper tales of revolution artistic triumphs and unwavering dedication to preserving beauty for generations to come. The Maison des Arts is more than a museum. It’s a living testament to Lyon’s enduring spirit.