Nestled in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris, the Musée National Eugène-Delacroix occupies the final residence of the iconic 19th-century painter, Eugène Delacroix.
This intimate museum, located at Place de Furstenberg, allows visitors to step into the very apartment and studio where Delacroix lived and worked during the final years of his life.
Opened in 1932 thanks to the efforts of renowned artists such as Maurice Denis, Paul Signac, and Édouard Vuillard, the museum stands as a testament to the influence Delacroix had on later generations of artists. Since 2004, it has been affiliated with the Louvre, further cementing its importance in the cultural landscape of Paris.
The Museum’s Rich History
The story of the Musée national Eugène-Delacroix begins in the late 1920s when a group of passionate artists and collectors banded together to save Delacroix’s last residence from demolition. Under the leadership of Maurice Denis, the Society of Friends of Eugène Delacroix raised awareness and funds to transform the apartment and studio into a museum.
The museum became a national institution in 1971, and its administration has since been overseen by the French state, ensuring the preservation of Delacroix’s world for future generations. In 2004, it was officially linked to the Louvre, allowing for broader recognition and conservation efforts.
Discover the Masterpieces of Eugène Delacroix
The museum offers a rare glimpse into the life and work of one of France’s most celebrated artists. Among the museum’s treasures are several of Delacroix’s most significant works, including “Mary Magdalene in the Desert,” a haunting painting deeply admired by Baudelaire, and “The Education of the Virgin”, painted in 1842. Visitors will also find the dramatic “Romeo and Juliet” as well as the “Bacchus with a Tiger” fresco, which showcases Delacroix’s unique ability to blend classical and romantic elements.
The museum also houses sketches, finished paintings, prints, and drawings, offering an in-depth view of Delacroix’s creative process. Works such as the Study of Bindings and Oriental Jacket highlight his fascination with different cultures, while copies of his major works—created by his peers—show how Delacroix’s influence extended well beyond his lifetime.
An Active Cultural Center
Beyond its permanent collection, the Musée national Eugène-Delacroix offers an exciting program of cultural events throughout the year. Exhibitions focusing on various aspects of Delacroix’s life and his impact on the art world are regularly showcased, often accompanied by concerts, workshops, and lectures.
The museum’s charming garden, which Delacroix himself designed, provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the serenity of the painter’s surroundings while admiring the studio’s facade. Special events, such as discussions with contemporary artists, also take place in this tranquil setting, making the museum a dynamic hub for artistic inspiration.