Hidden within Konstancin-Jeziorna, a resort town near Warsaw, Willa Le Fleur awaits. It isn’t just a villa. It’s a journey through time, a testament to a forgotten era of artistic brilliance. Willa Le Fleur houses a remarkable private art museum. It showcases the captivating works of Polish and Jewish artists associated with the École de Paris. The museum, comprised of two exquisitely renovated villas separated by a sculpture park, embodies the passion of Marek Roefler.
Roefler, president of the development company Dantex, began his collecting journey in the 1990s. His initial interest in 19th-century Polish art evolved into a fascination with the artists of Montparnasse. These artists, hailing from Central and Eastern Europe, forged a vibrant artistic community in Paris during the first half of the 20th century. The first of the two villas at Willa Le Fleur, originally built in 1906 as a residence, was transformed into a museum in 2009. It opened its doors to the public in 2010. A second villa, following a meticulous two-year renovation, joined the museum complex in 2021.
The museum’s permanent exhibition mirrors Roefler’s discerning eye. It features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and graphics. Prominent artists like Mojżesz Kisling, Eugeniusz Zak, Henryk Hayden, Henryk Epstein, Mela Muter, and Tamara de Lempicka grace the walls of Willa Le Fleur. The museum also boasts sculptures by renowned artists such as Jan Lambert-Rucki, Józef Csaky, Bolesław Biegas, Xawery Dunikowski, and August Zamoyski. The collection extends beyond paintings and sculptures, encompassing works from the Zakopane School, artistic crafts, and Art Deco furniture.
Willa Le Fleur is more than just a display of art. It’s a revival of forgotten masters. Roefler’s mission is to introduce these artists to a wider audience, to restore their place in Polish art history. The museum’s library, a treasure trove of art books and catalogs, further enhances its educational mission. It provides a valuable resource for researchers and art enthusiasts alike. Willa Le Fleur stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and the dedication of a collector who sought to share his passion with the world. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era, a celebration of artistic innovation, and a tribute to the artists who shaped the École de Paris.