Stairways and Symbolism at Musée Gustave Moreau

Lately, I’ve been rather consistent on my mission to achieve a visit to all of the art museums in Paris I know to exist (which also leaves me realizing just how many institutions exist in a single city, and thus the world—a practically existential crisis-inducing amount). Nonetheless, I continued this metaphorical and literal journey with Musée National Gustave Moreau, the charming museum dedicated to the Symbolist paintings of the namesake artist.

Museum Review

The museum is actually Moreau’s former home, later transformed while he was still alive, into an apartment/studio/museum hybrid. Moreau lived downstairs and his work inhabited the upper floors. I was brought back to our present reality when we were informed that due to current Covid circumstances, only the second and third floor of the atelier were open for visits, so I did not get to see the apartment portion of the building. Regardless, the two floors of art were more than enough for a satisfying visit.

The interior set up is a clever juxtaposition between a traditional salon style display and the uninhibited disarray of a painter’s studio. Each floor contain drawings, paintings, watercolors, and sculptures. Ornately-framed paintings of varying sizes envelop the walls, but I found the effect cohesive rather than overwhelming. Even though this setup put less emphasis on individual works, it allowed for a clear image of Moreau’s creative process and artistic intentions. I especially loved the studies and unfinished works, as they were like a peek behind the scenes.

Symbolism

Symbolism was an ideology that prioritized expression over realism in the depiction of the natural world. Dreams, visions, and references to Greek mythology are typical, and symbolist works often feature spiritual and/or erotic undertones. This explains Moreau’s rich color palette and sensual subjects—further enhanced by the museum itself: gold frames, burgundy walls, dark wooden floors, and an elaborate (and instagram-famous) staircase.

Closing Notes

What I appreciate most about this uniquely intimate museum is its attempt to fully showcase the spirit of the artist. Unfortunately I was unable to see his apartment during my visit, which would have provided further context about his internal process; but it did oblige me to contemplate his essence solely through his artwork, and perhaps Moreau would’ve even preferred it that way.