Marvelous isn’t it? This majestic building before us is the Villa de la Porte Dorée. It’s more than just a villa. It’s a time capsule a monument to a bygone era.
The Villa de la Porte Dorée wasn’t always a villa. It began life as the Palais de la Porte Dorée. Built for the 1931 International Colonial Exposition it was intended to be a museum of the colonies. Its purpose was to showcase the territories the history of colonial conquest and its artistic impact. Even a Tropical Aquarium was created for the Exposition. This aquarium has operated continuously ever since.
The Palais de la Porte Dorée has changed names several times. In 1990 it became the National Museum of African and Oceanic Arts. Its collections eventually transferred to the Musée du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac in 2006. Since 2007 the Palais has housed the National Museum of the History of Immigration.
Architect Albert Laprade designed the Palais de la Porte Dorée. He envisioned it as a total work of art. He collaborated with leading Art Deco artists. Their contributions included a massive bas-relief the largest in Europe. They also painted frescoes and designed exceptional furniture using exotic woods. The building showcases the best of Art Deco. Cabinetmaking sculpture ironwork mosaic fresco painting and glasswork all play a part. Artists like Brandt Schenk Baguès Poillerat Prouvé Subes Dunand Ducos de la Haille Bouquet and the Lemaitres all left their mark. Ruhlmann and Printz designed the two corner salons.
The Palais de la Porte Dorée’s Art Deco design is breathtaking. Notice its geometric lines large volumes and spatial symmetry. The monumental façade and imposing peristyle evoke Greek temples and French classicism. Yet the building’s zenithal lighting system draws inspiration from Moroccan architecture. Laprade had worked in Morocco in the 1910s and 1920s. He incorporated natural ventilation techniques too. The result is a harmonious blend of architectural styles.
The bas-relief on the façade is a masterpiece by Alfred Janniot. It depicts the economic and human wealth of the French colonies. It’s a powerful piece of propaganda. Yet Janniot meticulously documented scenes and characters showing a realistic ethnographic approach. Despite the idealized depiction it is a significant work of art.
Inside the central hall now called the Forum is a huge fresco by Pierre-Henri Ducos de La Haille. This depicts France’s contributions to the colonies. It’s another example of the idealized portrayal of colonialism.
The oval salons are equally impressive. One was used by the Minister of Colonies Paul Reynaud. The other by the Exposition’s commissioner Marshal Lyautey. They’re furnished with unique pieces by Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann and Eugène Printz. The materials and craftsmanship are exquisite. The furniture and decorations reflect the artistic and intellectual contributions of African and Asian colonies.
Today the Villa de la Porte Dorée stands as a testament to its history. It’s a living museum reflecting cultural and political intentions of a bygone era. The villa continues to host cultural events showcasing dance theatre music and more. It remains a vibrant hub for the community. It’s a place where history art and culture intertwine. A true Parisian gem.