Could the echoes of ancient Rome resonate in the heart of Paris? Absolutely! You’re standing before Cour de Rome, a seemingly ordinary courtyard that whispers tales of a time when aspiring French artists dreamt of the Eternal City. This courtyard, a part of the bustling Gare Saint-Lazare, owes its name to the nearby Rue de Rome. It served as a counterpoint to the Cour du Havre, located on the eastern side of the station. Cour de Rome was born between 1885 and 1888, during the grand reconstruction of the Gare Saint-Lazare. But the story doesn’t end there. This unassuming space holds a unique literary claim to fame. In 1947, Raymond Queneau, a renowned French writer, chose Cour de Rome as a central element in his playful literary experiment, “Exercises in Style.” He masterfully retells the same mundane anecdote, set within this very courtyard, in 99 distinct styles, showcasing the incredible flexibility of language. And as you stand here, imagine the grand ambitions of young artists vying for the prestigious Prix de Rome. This scholarship, established in 1663, granted talented painters, sculptors, architects, musicians, and engravers the opportunity to study in Rome for three to five years, immersing themselves in the classical masterpieces. It was a ticket to artistic glory, a dream pursued by the likes of Jacques-Louis David and Hector Berlioz. Interestingly, Cour de Rome houses a striking reminder of artistic journeys. It’s home to “Consigne à vie,” a five-meter-tall sculpture by Arman. This massive artwork, depicting a towering stack of suitcases, evokes the anticipation and baggage, both literal and metaphorical, that accompany any journey of self-discovery, much like the artistic pilgrimage to Rome. So next time you find yourself rushing through Gare Saint-Lazare, pause for a moment at Cour de Rome. Let the echoes of artistic dreams and literary ingenuity wash over you, a testament to the enduring allure of Rome and the power of imagination.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to