Musée Fabre

Nestled in the historic heart of Montpellier, the Musée Fabre stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic grandeur. Founded in 1828, this prestigious museum owes its existence to the generous donation of François-Xavier Fabre, a renowned painter and art collector. With its extensive collection spanning centuries, the Musée Fabre offers an immersive journey through the evolution of art in Europe, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The Birth of Musée Fabre

The inception of the Musée Fabre is a tale of passion and generosity. François-Xavier Fabre, a distinguished painter who had spent years in Rome and Florence, amassed a remarkable collection of artworks. Upon his return to France in 1824, he proposed donating his collection to the city of Montpellier on the condition that a museum be established to house it. The proposal was warmly received, and with the support of the mayor, Ange-Jean-Michel-Bonaventure de Dax, the museum was born. After three years of extensive renovations to the Hôtel de Massilian, an 18th-century mansion, the Musée Fabre opened its doors to the public on December 3, 1828.

A Building Steeped in History

The Musée Fabre is housed in the Hôtel de Massilian, a historic building located in the eastern part of Montpellier's old town, near the Esplanade. Acquired by the municipality in 1825 for 140,000 francs, this former private mansion underwent significant transformations to become a museum. The renovation, overseen by architects Fovis and Boué, preserved the building's historical charm while adapting it to its new role. Over the years, the museum expanded into adjacent buildings, including the former Jesuit college, to accommodate its growing collection.

The Grand Renovation

In 2003, the Musée Fabre embarked on a major renovation and expansion project to modernize its facilities and enhance the visitor experience. The museum closed its doors for four years, during which the Bordeaux-based architectural firm Brochet-Lajus-Peyo, in collaboration with Emmanuel Nebout from Montpellier, undertook the ambitious project. The renovation increased the exhibition space from 3,000 to 9,000 square meters, including a new wing dedicated to contemporary art. The revamped museum reopened to the public on February 4, 2007, featuring a new entrance through the former Jesuit college and a striking mosaic by artist Daniel Buren in the entrance hall.

Exploring the Collections

The Musée Fabre boasts a diverse and extensive collection, with over 2,000 paintings, 300 sculptures, 4,000 drawings, and 1,500 prints. The museum's collection is organized into several sections, each offering a unique glimpse into different periods and styles of art.

The Old Masters

The first seven rooms of the museum are dedicated to Flemish and Dutch art, showcasing works by masters such as Peter Paul Rubens, David Teniers, and Gerard Dou. This section highlights the contributions of Antoine Valedau, a Montpellier-born financier who bequeathed a significant collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings to the museum.

Renaissance and Baroque Treasures

The next section features French, Italian, and Spanish art from the Renaissance to the 17th century. Notable works include pieces by Nicolas Poussin, Paolo Veronese, and Francisco de Zurbarán. A highlight of this section is the portrait L'Homme aux rubans noirs by Sébastien Bourdon, a Montpellier native whose works are prominently displayed throughout the museum.

Neoclassicism and Romanticism

The Musée Fabre's collection of neoclassical and romantic art is one of its crowning jewels. This section includes works by François-Xavier Fabre himself, as well as pieces by Jean-Baptiste Greuze, Jacques-Louis David, and Eugène Delacroix. The museum also houses an impressive collection of sculptures by Jean-Antoine Houdon and Augustin Pajou.

19th and 20th Century Art

The museum's 19th-century collection features works by artists such as Gustave Courbet, Alexandre Cabanel, and Frédéric Bazille, a pioneer of impressionism. The modern art section includes sculptures by Germaine Richier and Aristide Maillol, as well as paintings by members of the Supports/Surfaces movement, many of whom hail from the Languedoc region.

A Living Museum

The Musée Fabre is not just a repository of art; it is a dynamic cultural institution that continues to evolve. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. A visit to the Musée Fabre is not only an opportunity to admire masterpieces of art but also to engage with the rich cultural heritage of Montpellier.

In conclusion, the Musée Fabre is a testament to the enduring power of art and the vision of its founder, François-Xavier Fabre. Its vast and varied collection offers a captivating journey through the history of European art, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting Montpellier. Whether you are an art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Musée Fabre promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and enriched.