Calvet Museum

Beschreibung

It was in the early 18th century that the building took on its solemn and majestic form; the work was directed by architect Jean-Baptiste Franque, who proposed to the patrons, Joseph Ignace de Villeneuve-Martignan and his wife Henriette Victoire de Sade a structure situated between the main courtyard and French-style gardens in the heart of Avignon. The reception room and the staircase leading to the Vernet Gallery reflect the achievements of the Age of Enlightenment.

The garden, which is exceptionally spacious and shaded by century-old plane trees, is an ideal setting for hosting private events.

Over the past two centuries, the Calvet Museum has expanded its collection with numerous works, acquired through donations, loans, or purchases. The painters Carle and Horace Vernet, along with their friend Esprit Requien, were the founders of the art gallery. Horace Vernet, in particular, donated *The Death of Young Bara*, one of David’s masterpieces, in 1846. The Louvre Museum has enriched the collection with a very significant loan of works by Hubert Robert. Painters and sculptors such as Pradier, Chassériau, Cléssinger, Manet, Bonnard, Camille Claudel, and many other artists now form a collection of the highest quality.

The Calvet Museum also boasts a fine collection of modern art, including a drawing by Cézanne, two by Modigliani, paintings by Dufy, Utrillo, an extraordinary Vlaminck, and five Soutines—true masterpieces, unique in France outside of Paris.

Accessibility: Sidewalk adapted for access to the main courtyard on Rue Joseph Vernet. The cobblestone path leading to the Calvet Museum is difficult to navigate for wheelchair users accompanied by an assistant or in electric wheelchairs (round cobblestones). An accessible ramp provides access to the museum’s ground floor.
Alternative vehicle access on Rue Basile. A bell at the entrance to open the gate, with two designated parking spaces for people with reduced mobility. An outdoor elevator providing access to the museum’s ground floor and the ticket office.
The upper floor is accessible by elevator.