Friday, November 16, 2012

Musee De L'Orangerie - Paris France

Home to some of Monet's most famous paintings, the water lillies, the Musee De L'Orangerie is often an overlooked museum in Paris. While this museum houses paintings from some of the most famous artists on all time Monet's water lilles tend to steal the hearts of visitors of all ages. The museum has been the only place that has housed Monet's water lilles since his death. In 2000 the museum was closed for renovations and didn't reopen until May 2006.

When I went it was really busy, as a matter of fact I went in May 2006 as this was the time that I have planned my trip to Paris. So I had a wonderful time, but the line to get it was crazy. For those that are going now the lines will not be that bad and you might not even have to wait to get in. When I went in the museum I have to admit my eyes and attention were focused on finding the water lillies. I spend a lot of time admiring the lillies and would advise anyone that is in Paris to make sure that they take the time to look at these works of art, and don't rush yourself. Take plenty of time to look at the detail and admire the work. The display of these pieces is stunning, it's something that can't really be described. Remember when you are looking at the paintings, that you can take photos but you can't use flash. The flash from a camera will damage the canvas over time. When I went there was a security guide that was making sure that people didn't use flash, I don't know if they would still do that or not, but please don't risk damaging the paintings for people to enjoy in the future, turn off your flash.

While Monet's lillies are the star of the show at the Musee De L'Orangerie they are not the only pieces that are worth seeing. So make sure that you walk around the entire musuem and take your time. I wish that I had focused more on other works that were in the musuem and not just the lillies, but I did enjoy the entire museum, even though I would have liked more time.

Website: http://www.musee-orangerie.fr/

Closed Tuesdays, May 1, and Dec. 25
9AM-6PM