The Royal Opera in Versailles is one that has been a little unloved in recent decades. The stunning set was created back in 1682 for the wedding of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette and was a great architectural feat. In the 19th century, the room was taken over by Senate. It wasn’t until 2009 that it went back to being a space for the arts. Yet, this was the only time that the public could see the architecture – if they had paid to see a show.
King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh at the Grande Halle de la Villette brings 150 pieces to the exhibition space in a wonderful interactive experience. The diversity of pieces, from childhood items to golden treasures, unveils a little more about the ancient king. This is a great idea for Ancient Egypt fans over the Easter break and the show continues until September 15th. Don’t miss out!
This show is a long-running exhibition for the gallery – continuing until the 21st of July. This means lots of chances to come and study these paintings and see what you see in the models. You might see a well-known painting or artist in a new light after this show. The chronology and comparisons should be enlightening.
Anting-Anting are something that many people in the West will not be familiar with. Yet, their designs and purpose have a connection to faith and superstition right across the world. These talismans are worn by their owners to protect them from danger. They often come in the form of crosses or other religious iconography and have great significance to the wearer. The idea is that those large amulets will protect soldiers in the line of fire, policemen in the line of duty and all kinds of other wearers. The mixture of Catholic and traditional culture is familiar, yet at the same time unique to the Philippines.
Emil Georg Bührle is one of the most celebrated German art collectors of the modern era. Over a short period in the 1950s, Buhrle amassed an enormous collection of art from some of the best masters in Europe. These pieces stretch from the impressionist movement of the 19th century to some of the masters of cubism and modern art in the mid 20th century. Among them are beautiful pieces by Degas, Cezanne, Monet, Picasso and many more. The collection on its own is a snapshot of European art history through the eyes of a very clever collector.
In the heart of the 7th arrondissement, near the Hôtel de la Motte Picquet, can be found the prestigious Hôtel des Invalides. This complex of buildings and its huge golden dome, a Parisian landmark, is home to the Army Museum and monuments relating to French military history. Here you can see a magnificent collection of weapons, uniforms, armour, military models and more, as well as the tomb of Napoleon.
