Faure Museum

Nestled in the picturesque town of Aix-les-Bains, in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, the Faure Museum (Musée Faure) is a cultural gem waiting to be discovered. This charming museum, housed in the elegant Italianate villa known as Villa des Chimères, offers an intimate glimpse into the world of 19th and early 20th-century art. The museum's origins date back to 1949, when it was founded to showcase the impressive private collection of Dr. Jean Faure, a passionate art lover who bequeathed 220 works to the town of Aix-les-Bains upon his death in 1942.

The Villa des Chimères

The Faure Museum is housed in the Villa des Chimères, an exquisite Italian-style villa built in 1902. Originally owned by Henri de Ricqlès, the villa was acquired by the town of Aix-les-Bains in 1947, thanks to the generous bequest from Dr. Faure. The villa's Genoese architectural style is evident in its elegant facade, which features a painted frieze of stylized chimeras and an entrance flanked by two imposing columns. Inside, the building has been carefully adapted to meet modern accessibility standards, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the museum's treasures.

The Gardens

The museum's charm extends beyond its walls to its beautifully landscaped gardens, which are open to the public. Here, visitors can stroll among sculptures by artists such as Alfred Boucher and Mars Vallett, whose Children in the Snow is a particularly enchanting piece. Benches are strategically placed along the garden's pathways, offering a peaceful spot to sit and reflect on the art and nature surrounding you.

The Collections

The heart of the Faure Museum is its impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, primarily from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist periods. Dr. Faure began amassing his collection in 1885, during his regular visits to Paris, where he developed close relationships with art dealers like André Schoeller. As a result, the museum boasts the second-largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin in France, as well as an extensive array of Impressionist paintings.

Sculpture

The Faure Museum's sculpture collection is a highlight, featuring 33 works by Auguste Rodin, making it the second-largest Rodin collection in France. Among these are some of Rodin's most famous pieces, including studies and smaller sculptures that showcase his mastery of form and emotion. The collection also includes works by other notable sculptors such as Antoine-Louis Barye, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, Jules Desbois, and Alfred Boucher.

Painting

The museum's painting collection is equally impressive, with a focus on Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Symbolist works. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Camille Corot, Paul Cézanne, Eugène Boudin, Camille Pissarro, Pierre Bonnard, Edgar Degas, Alfred Sisley, and Albert Marquet. Each painting offers a unique window into the artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, capturing the light, color, and atmosphere that define these styles.

Other Collections

In addition to its paintings and sculptures, the Faure Museum houses a fascinating collection of memorabilia related to the poet Lamartine, who spent time in Aix-les-Bains. One of the museum's most intriguing exhibits is a recreation of Lamartine's room at the Pension Perrier, where he stayed in 1816 during his fateful encounter with Julie Charles. The museum also features a collection of faience and ceramics, originally part of Aix-les-Bains' first museum, founded in 1872 by the painter and engraver Ludovic-Napoléon Lepic, a close friend of Edgar Degas.

Temporary Exhibitions

The Faure Museum is not just a repository of permanent collections; it also hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions. Each year, the museum organizes five temporary exhibitions, showcasing contemporary artists and exploring various themes. Past exhibitions have featured works by artists such as Jean-Michel Alberola, Claude-Max Lochu, and Catherine Viollet, as well as thematic shows on figures like Camille Claudel and Henriette Deloras.

Visitor Information

The Faure Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its intimate setting, combined with its world-class collections, offers a unique and enriching experience. The museum is open year-round, with special provisions for visitors with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty and history housed within its walls. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Faure Museum promises to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, the Faure Museum in Aix-les-Bains is a cultural treasure that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich artistic heritage of the 19th and early 20th centuries. With its stunning villa, beautiful gardens, and exceptional collections, the museum is a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. Jean Faure and his passion for art. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this enchanting museum and the masterpieces it holds.