Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud

Located in the heart of Perpignan, the Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud stands as a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region. This museum, named after the renowned Baroque portraitist Hyacinthe Rigaud, offers an enchanting journey through centuries of art, from Gothic masterpieces to contemporary creations.

A Historical Gem

The origins of the Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud date back to 1820 when it was established under the auspices of Emmanuel-Ferdinand de Villeneuve-Bargemon, the prefect of the Pyrénées-Orientales. Initially, the museum's collection comprised about thirty paintings, generously loaned by prominent local collectors. Among the first acquisitions were significant works by Hyacinthe Rigaud himself, including the Portrait of Cardinal de Bouillon and the Self-portrait with Black Ribbon.

In 1833, the museum opened its doors to the public in the former University of Perpignan, which had been closed since 1792. The museum underwent several transformations over the years, with a major renovation in 1953 to celebrate the tricentennial of Rigaud's birth. This renovation included the addition of important state deposits, such as the Self-portrait with Turban and the Portrait of Philippe d'Orléans.

In 1979, the museum found a new home in the Hôtel de Lazerme, and in 2017, it expanded further to include the Hôtel de Mailly, resulting in a comprehensive renovation and enlargement project. This ambitious project, completed at a cost of 9 million euros, has since drawn over 200,000 visitors, solidifying the museum's reputation as a cultural cornerstone in Perpignan.

Exploring the Collections

The Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud boasts an impressive array of permanent collections, meticulously curated to capture the essence of various artistic periods. The museum's holdings are divided into four main sections: Gothic Art, Baroque Art, Modern Art, and Contemporary Art. With over 14,000 works in its possession, the museum showcases approximately 450 pieces at any given time.

Among the notable works in the Gothic Art collection is the Altarpiece of the Trinity by the Master of the Loge de Mer, dating back to 1489. This exquisite piece exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship and religious fervor of the period. The Baroque Art section features several masterpieces by Hyacinthe Rigaud, including the Self-portrait with Turban and the Portrait of Emmanuel Théodose de La Tour d’Auvergne, Cardinal de Bouillon.

The Modern Art collection includes works by prominent artists such as Raoul Dufy and Pablo Picasso. Dufy's The Console and The Black Cargo offer vibrant glimpses into his time spent in Perpignan, while Picasso's Portrait of Paule de Lazerme in Catalan Costume highlights the artist's connection to the region. The Contemporary Art section is equally captivating, with pieces by artists like Aristide Maillol and George-Daniel de Monfreid, whose Self-portrait in a White Jacket from 1888 is a standout.

Temporary Exhibitions

The Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud is renowned for its dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, which continually breathe new life into the museum's offerings. These exhibitions provide a platform for exploring diverse artistic movements and themes, often featuring works from both established and emerging artists.

Past exhibitions include Picasso Perpignan, The Circle of Intimacy 1953-1955, which ran from June to November 2017, and Raoul Dufy, The Perpignan Workshops 1940-1950, held from June to November 2018. More recent exhibitions have included Rodin - Maillol Face to Face in 2019, Portraits of Queens of France in 2020-2021, and Monfreid under the Sun of Gauguin in 2022. Each exhibition offers a unique perspective on the featured artists and their connections to Perpignan and beyond.

A Must-Visit Destination

The Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud is not just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the artistic heritage of Perpignan and the broader Catalan region. Its meticulously curated collections, combined with its innovative temporary exhibitions, make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

As you wander through the museum's elegant galleries, you will be transported through time, from the intricate Gothic altarpieces to the bold strokes of modern and contemporary art. The museum's commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions ensures that there is always something new and exciting to discover.

Whether you are an art aficionado or simply looking to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Perpignan, the Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud promises an unforgettable experience. So, take your time, explore the collections, and let the art speak to you in this beautiful and historic setting.