And how are these pieces designed and made? Through three important and influential factories: Les Gobelins, Beauvais and La Savonnerie.
Walking through the exhibits is akin to being in Versailles, in the Louvre, in the bedroom of a queen. Marvel at the intricacies of Renaissance tapestries and fabrics and learn how they were fabricated. It’s easy to lose yourself for a few hours learning all about dyeing fabrics, lace-making and wood carving. And if you don’t know what a nuancier is, this is your chance to find out.
Opéra National de Paris
Imagine this. You’re standing on the stage of the Palais Garnier. Before you an adoring crowd is on their feet, clapping wildly at your moving and tragic performance of Swan Lake. Bravo! Bravo! They cry. Now if it was a nightmare you’d look down and see that you’re naked, but on this virtual tour you are free to dream of yourself in a tutu. This opulent building was finished in the late nineteenth century and was the official home of Paris Opera and Paris Ballet until 1989. Now it's mostly used for ballet performances.
Once you have finished with your standing ovation on the stage, there is much to see. If ever there was a room filled with gold, it is the Grand Foyer. Cast your eyes upwards and follow the history of music and of Paris ornamented with colourful frescoes awash with gold leaf. Apollo receives a lyre from Mercury. Calliope, Clio and their sisters, the nine Greek muses, cast a loving eye from lofty heights. The siege of Paris is enacted in historical glory.
Access to this glorious golden chamber is via the Grand Staircase, on whose marble pedestals sit entwined Greek goddesses holding candles to light the way.