Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil

Situated in the picturesque town of Creil in the Oise department of northern France, the Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This charming museum, known locally as Musée Gallé-Juillet, offers a delightful journey through time, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and fascinating history of Creil and its notable families.

A Brief History

The Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil stands on the site of the ancient Creil fortress. The current museum complex comprises two 19th-century houses: the Gallé-Juillet house and the Maison de la Faïence. The museum's story begins with Jules Juillet, the mayor of Creil, who constructed a country house between 1846 and 1868 on the remnants of the old fortress, transforming it into a cabinet of curiosities filled with antique objects.

The museum as it stands today owes its existence to a generous donation made in 1929 by Berthe Gallé, a prominent Creil resident. In memory of her late husband, Auguste Gallé, and their son Maurice, who tragically died during World War I, Berthe Gallé bequeathed her home and its contents to the town of Creil. Her wish was to preserve the house as it was, maintaining the ambiance and appearance of a lived-in family home.

Exploring the Museum

Visitors to the Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil are treated to an immersive experience that vividly portrays the life of a bourgeois family from the French Revolution through to the First World War. The museum's 17 rooms are spread across four levels, including the ground floor, first and second floors, and the attic. Each room is meticulously preserved and furnished, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Gallé-Juillet family.

The ground floor features two rooms with medieval cross-ribbed vaults, remnants of the original fortress. As you wander through the house, you'll encounter beautifully decorated spaces, including the kitchen, dining room, living room, study, and bedrooms. The attention to detail in the furnishings and decor transports visitors back in time, providing a unique window into the past.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum boasts an impressive collection of approximately 15,000 artifacts, encompassing decorative arts, fine arts, and ethnology. Among the highlights is the extensive collection of Creil faience, a type of fine pottery that was produced locally from the late 18th century until the closure of the Creil faience factory in 1895.

One of the most enchanting rooms in the museum is the cabinet of curiosities, which houses an eclectic assortment of shells, fossils, butterflies, herbariums, and natural history books. This room reflects the diverse interests and passions of Ernest Gallé, a painter and avid collector, who was a cousin of the renowned Art Nouveau artist Émile Gallé.

In addition to the natural history collection, the museum also features a variety of decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and paintings. Notable pieces include a table decorated with dragonflies and exotic flowers by Émile Gallé, created as a wedding gift for Auguste Gallé and Berthe Franchemont in 1894. Other intriguing items include a collection of antique toys and a charming children's theater.

The Faience Factory

The history of Creil's faience production is intricately linked to the town's identity. The first faience factory was established in 1797 by Parisian glassmaker Robert Bray O'Reilly. Although it only operated for a little over a year, the factory was reestablished in 1802 and became a significant local employer, with 700 workers by 1840. The factory produced a wide range of pottery, including the distinctive black basalt ware inspired by Josiah Wedgwood's designs.

The museum's collection includes over 600 pieces of Creil faience, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the factory's workers. These pieces range from everyday tableware to more elaborate decorative items, each telling a story of the town's industrial heritage.

Visiting the Museum

A visit to the Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil is a delightful journey through history, offering a unique opportunity to explore the lives of a prominent Creil family and the town's rich cultural heritage. The museum's beautifully preserved rooms, extensive collections, and fascinating exhibits provide a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging and educational outing, the Musée Gallé-Juillet de Creil is a must-visit destination. The museum's charming setting, combined with its rich history and diverse collections, makes it a true gem in the heart of Creil.