Musée Rimbaud

In the charming town of Charleville-Mézières, nestled in the Ardennes region of northern France, lies a hidden gem for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike—the Musée Rimbaud. This captivating museum is dedicated to the life and works of the enigmatic poet Arthur Rimbaud, one of France’s most celebrated literary figures. Housed in a historic building known as the Vieux-Moulin, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the poet’s tumultuous life and his extraordinary contributions to literature.

The History of the Vieux-Moulin

The story of the Vieux-Moulin, which now houses the Musée Rimbaud, is as compelling as the life of the poet it celebrates. The mill’s history dates back to the early 17th century when Charles de Gonzague, the Duke of Nevers, founded the city of Charleville in 1606. By 1626, the duke had commissioned the construction of a grand mill on the banks of the Meuse River, designed by the architect Claude Briau. The mill was an integral part of the city’s urban plan, serving as a monumental northern gateway to Charleville.

The Vieux-Moulin’s impressive façade, characterized by its four Ionic columns and powerful entablature, was a symbol of the city’s prosperity. The mill began its operations in 1627, producing flour and contributing to the local economy for over a century. However, in 1754, a devastating fire ravaged the interior of the mill, leading to a lengthy restoration process. The mill continued to operate until the late 19th century, eventually being repurposed and restored by the municipality of Charleville-Mézières.

The Birth of the Musée Rimbaud

The Musée Rimbaud’s origins can be traced back to 1927, when a relative of the poet, Professor A. Gilbert, donated a collection of Rimbaud-related objects to the city. Initially, these items were displayed in a small section of the local museum. The pivotal moment for the museum came in 1954, the centenary of Rimbaud’s birth, when Henri Matarasso, a passionate collector and bookseller, donated his extensive collection of Rimbaud memorabilia. This included rare editions of Rimbaud’s works, personal belongings, and artworks by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Alberto Giacometti.

In 1969, the collection found a permanent home on the second floor of the Vieux-Moulin. By 1991, the entire building was dedicated to the Musée Rimbaud, marking the centenary of the poet’s death. A comprehensive renovation in 2014-2015 transformed the museum into a modern, immersive experience, with contemporary artist Claude Lévêque contributing to the redesign.

Exploring the Musée Rimbaud

The museum’s exhibition spans four floors, each offering a unique perspective on Rimbaud’s life and work. The journey begins in the attic, where visitors are enveloped in the poet’s world through sound installations that recite his verses. This space evokes the attic of the farm in Roche, where Rimbaud penned his seminal work, A Season in Hell.

On the second floor, the “Reveries” section delves into Rimbaud’s childhood in the Ardennes and his early literary endeavors. The exhibits include photographs, paintings, and historical documents that paint a vivid picture of 19th-century Charleville. Notable pieces include artworks by Paterne Berrichon, Rimbaud’s brother-in-law, and illustrations inspired by the poet’s writings.

Rimbaud’s Revolutionary Spirit

The first floor, titled “Revolutions,” captures the transformative period of Rimbaud’s life during the Paris Commune and his encounters with fellow poet Paul Verlaine. This section highlights the revolutionary nature of Rimbaud’s prose poetry and his influence on modern literature. Portraits by artists such as Picasso, Giacometti, and Fernand Léger underscore Rimbaud’s enduring legacy as a cultural icon.

A special room on this floor is dedicated to the museum’s most treasured items, including original manuscripts of Rimbaud’s poems “Voyelles” and “À la Musique.” Visitors can also view the famous photograph of the 17-year-old Rimbaud taken by Étienne Carjat, a rare glimpse into the poet’s enigmatic persona.

Voyages and the African Adventure

The ground floor explores the latter part of Rimbaud’s life, when he abandoned poetry to become an explorer and trader in Africa. The “Voyages” and “Towards Africa” sections present a “cabinet of curiosities” filled with artifacts from Rimbaud’s travels, such as his suitcase, cutlery, books, and a watch. These objects offer a tangible connection to the poet’s adventurous spirit and his quest for new experiences.

Adjacent to the museum, the Auberge Verte hall serves as a venue for conferences, workshops, and temporary exhibitions. It adds a dynamic element to the museum, fostering engagement and learning through various cultural events.

The Maison des Ailleurs

Just across the street from the Musée Rimbaud, at 7 Quai Arthur Rimbaud, lies another significant site—the Maison des Ailleurs. This former residence of the Rimbaud family has been transformed into an extension of the museum, offering visitors a deeper insight into the poet’s life. The Maison des Ailleurs features interactive displays and multimedia installations that bring Rimbaud’s world to life.

In conclusion, the Musée Rimbaud is not just a museum; it is a journey through the life of one of France’s most influential poets. Each floor of the Vieux-Moulin reveals a different facet of Rimbaud’s genius, from his early years in Charleville to his revolutionary poetry and his adventures in Africa. For anyone with an interest in literature, history, or the arts, a visit to the Musée Rimbaud is an unforgettable experience that offers a profound connection to the spirit of Arthur Rimbaud.