Musée des Arts Décoratifs: A Chronicle of French Design

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs, located in the Pavillon de Marsan wing of the Louvre Palace, offers an extensive journey through the history of French decorative arts. Founded in 1905, the museum's collection spans from the Middle Ages to the present day, showcasing the evolution of design, craftsmanship, and the French art of living. The museum's vast collection includes furniture, interior design elements, tableware, ceramics, glassware, tapestries, and jewelry. Highlights include period rooms that recreate interiors from different eras, providing an immersive experience of how French citizens lived from the late 15th century to the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the apartment of fashion designer Jeanne Lanvin, designed in the Art Déco style, and the 18th-century Gold Cabinet of Avignon. A unique exhibit is the 1875 bedroom of courtesan Lucie Émilie Delabigne, rumored to be the inspiration for Émile Zola's novel Nana. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs also features significant collections of Art Nouveau and Art Déco pieces, as well as modern designs. The museum's commitment to showcasing the links between industry, culture, creation and production makes it a key destination for understanding the history of design and applied arts. With its diverse and carefully curated displays, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs offers a captivating experience for anyone interested in the decorative arts and French cultural heritage.