(Robert) After falling ill with a nasty stomach ache, most likely the result of a questionable late-night Chinese meal in Pigalle, Katherine suggested that I get out of the house and make use of little time we have left in Paris. A few months earlier, I had promised my step-father, Michael, that I would go to Musee Jacquemart Andre. On our last night before departing for Argentina, Michael had gone into great detail about the unique characteristics of the museum.
From the street, you could hardly make out the museum from its neighboring residences. This is because the grand entrance is actually in the rear of the building. Once inside I made good use of the free audio tour which did an excellent job of recreating the mood and atmosphere of 18-century aristocratic lifestyle. Unlike most museums, the Jacquemart Andre building is every bit as important as the works of art it houses. Designed by one of the great architects of its time, you will marvel in the architectural innovation of the mansion.
To my surprise the art collection houses one of the greatest renaissance art collections in the world, second only to the Louvre. To understand the collection and the residence you must understand a little about Edouard Andre and his wife, Nelie Jacquemart. Edouard was an heir to a great fortune, had little responsibility and great deal of time on his hands. His wife, Nelie, was a society lady and painter. Together they traveled extensively throughout Italy collecting pieces from such masters as Donetello, Robbia and Boticelli. End your visit as I did, over a glass of wine and dessert at the cafe, which has a brilliant view of the residence's garden.
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