How many streets do you know named after an economist and art collector? Rue Cernuschi is such a street. It is nestled in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. This street pays homage to Henri Cernuschi. He was an Italian patriot, economist and art collector.
Rue Cernuschi is a relatively short street. It stretches just 158 meters. The street’s width is 12 meters. It begins at 148 boulevard Malesherbes. Rue Cernuschi ends at 79 rue de Tocqueville.
Henri Cernuschi was born in Milan in 1821. He was involved in the Italian uprising. Cernuschi was arrested in 1850. He escaped and went into exile in France. He was passionate about art and politics. Cernuschi also had a practical interest in banking. He helped found the Banque de Paris. Today it is part of the BNP Paribas Group.
At 50, Cernuschi traveled to Asia. He was accompanied by Théodore Duret. Duret was a patron of the Impressionists. He helped Cernuschi acquire five thousand works of art.
When Cernuschi returned in 1873, he built a mansion. It overlooked Parc Monceau. This mansion would house his art collection. Upon his death, Henri Cernuschi bequeathed his mansion. He also left his art collection to the City of Paris.
The street was officially named Rue Cernuschi in 1896. The street is close to the Musée Cernuschi. The Musée Cernuschi is located at 7 avenue Vélasquez. Cernuschi had bequeathed the museum to the City of Paris. The museum opened on October 26, 1898.
The Musée Cernuschi’s collection has grown significantly. It started with 5,000 objects. Now it boasts over 12,500. The museum showcases Asian art. This includes Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese pieces.
One notable building on Rue Cernuschi is at number 20. It is a hôtel particulier designed by Alexandre Chabert. Chabert was an architect. He completed it in 1899. The singer Michel Fugain lived on Rue Cernuschi in his youth.
Today, Rue Cernuschi offers a glimpse into Parisian life. It connects two busy thoroughfares. The Wagram metro station serves the area via line 3. So, next time you are in Paris take a walk on Rue Cernuschi. Take a moment to remember Henri Cernuschi. Consider his contributions to art and finance.