Did you know that the birthplace of this major figure of 20th century art has one of the most important collections of his works in the world? Go to Cateau-Cambrésis, in this beautiful place directly created by the great French painter, draftsman, engraver and sculptor.
First installed in the Renaissance Town Hall, the collection dedicated to the painter was transferred in 1982 to the Palais Fénelon, a former second residence of the archbishops of Cambrai, listed in the inventory of Historical Monuments.
The palace, built in the 18th century, is surrounded by a park designed by the famous landscaper of the Palace of Versailles, André Le Nôtre. It is made up of many trees of various species, including 2 rows of tricentennial lime trees and "English-style" and "French style" gardens where you can stroll around. You can admire the sculptures of Marius Cladel and Louis Dejean, to which were added, in 2019, those of the sculptor William Sweetlove.
The departemental museum has 3 collections. The Matisse collection, installed in the heart of the palace, is one of the most important in the world.
Following major renovation work, the museum will reopen in November 2024 with a 1,000m² extension, offering visitors the chance to delve into the 3 techniques mastered by the Fauvist artist: etching, sculpture and paper cut-outs. This ambitious renovation was also an opportunity to revise the overall scenography, making it more didactic and immersive, so as to offer visitors a complete discovery of the work of the master of color, who had donated his cabinet of drawings and objects from his personal collection to the museum in his home town.
The wings of the Palais also house 1 collection dedicated to Auguste Herbin, one of the greatest abstract painters, who spent his youth in Le Cateau. It includes drawings, engravings, paintings and sculptures. Finally, the Tériade room presents books and personal works by some of the greatest artists of the 20th century, including Picasso, Rouault, Giacometti and Chagall.
For more information about the Matisse Museum.
Jessica from Comme des Français
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Credit photos : Dominique Silberstein
