Bibliothèque Forney: A Decorative Arts Treasury

The Bibliothèque Forney, nestled within the Hôtel de Sens in the Marais district, is a unique institution dedicated to the decorative arts. Founded in 1886, the library's origins lie in a bequest by Aimé Samuel Forney, an industrialist who sought to promote arts and crafts education in Paris. Originally located in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, a historic artisan district, the library quickly outgrew its space and moved to the Hôtel de Sens in 1961. The Hôtel de Sens itself is a significant historical landmark, dating back to the 15th century. Built as a residence for the Archbishop of Sens, it is one of the few remaining examples of medieval civil architecture in Paris. The building's architecture blends Gothic and French Renaissance styles, offering a captivating backdrop for the library's collections. The Bibliothèque Forney's collection encompasses a wide range of materials related to decorative arts, including books, journals, exhibition catalogs, posters, and graphic arts. The library holds over 230,000 books, 50,000 exhibition catalogs, and 4,000 journal titles. Its poster collection is one of the largest in France, featuring advertising posters from 1880 to the present day. The library also houses samples of wallpaper, fabrics, original furniture designs, and a vast collection of postcards and commercial documents. The library is not only a repository of historical materials but also a dynamic space for study and inspiration. It attracts students, researchers, and art professionals who come to consult its collections and participate in exhibitions and events. The Bibliothèque Forney offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of decorative arts within the walls of a medieval Parisian mansion.