Wednesday, January 20, 2010

January 20

Dear Virginia has posted some pictures of the Musée Carnavalet on her blog of late. The museum occupies two 15th-Century mansions in the Marais, one of which was at one point the home of the wonderful Madame de Sévigné, justly famous for her vast and entertaining correspondence, much of which survives and gives us one of the clearest records of aristocratic France at that time. (I have a book containing a collection of them, but I keep not reading it. Shame on me.)

Virginia posted this photo the other day, which I recognized instantly. It made me smile, remembering what a beautiful building it was, and how much I'd loved that staircase. I stood on it for quite a while, as I recall. I'm not sure why I didn't take a picture. So glad Virginia did.

So here are a few more of the Carnavalet, to expand the theme. (Please forgive my tendency toward arty detail shots. I get very transfixed by patterns in architecture.)

The museum is wonderful, a little-known gem, and should not be missed. Plus, getting there is a great excuse to have a little wander around the Marais, which is never a bad thing.












OY! I am soooooo embarrassed, but I believe Virginia is correct -- this is the hotel Sully, NOT the Carnavalet. Oh, dear -- it's been so long since I've been to Paris that my memories are getting fuzzy. Now I have to go seek out some actual photos of the actual Carnavalet.

3 comments:

Virginia said...

You give me too much credit but I am pleased you find my photos bring back fond memories. Now I must ask where the top was taken. I don't remember this vast garden. Almost looks like the Hotel Sully! I missed the details you found. Isn't it funny how photographers can all be in one place and find something different to photograph!!
xx
v

PeterParis said...

Virginia is becoming a real Paris expert!! Yes, I believe she's right! This is the view you have when you enter from the Place des Vosges.
Anyhow, the visit to the Carnavalet museum is really something (and free of charge)!

Louis la Vache said...

«Louis» agrees - this is Sully, which may be accessed from the front from rue-Saint-Antoine or from the back via Place des Vosges. «Louis» lived on rue-Saint-Antoine just before rue-de-Rivoli.

In any case, «Louis» likes the architectural details you've shown here.