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.
The works are presented in a chronological journey that testifies to the artist's career and his travels through France and Tahiti, whose memory is immortalized by major works such as "Polynésie le Ciel" and "Fenêtre sur Tahiti". The entire drawing collection was donated by the painter and shows the diversity of his production. Items from his personal collection are also on display.
In the new wings of the Palace, enlarged and renovated in 2002, two collections are presented, one dedicated to Auguste Herbin, who spent his youth in the town of Cateau-Cambrésis. Dedicated to one of the greatest abstraction painters, this collection includes drawings, engravings, paintings and sculptures.
Finally, the Tériade Room presents books and personal works by the greatest artists of the 20th century such as 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
