The Musée Thomas Henry, located in Cherbourg, France, is a hidden gem of French art history. This museum houses an impressive collection of over 300 paintings, primarily from the 15th to 19th centuries, making it the third most important collection of paintings in Normandy.
Discover the Musée Thomas Henry, a Hidden Gem of French Art History
The Musée Thomas Henry, located in Cherbourg, France, is a hidden gem of French art history. This museum houses an impressive collection of over 300 paintings, primarily from the 15th to 19th centuries, making it the third most important collection of paintings in Normandy.
History of the Musée Thomas Henry
The museum was established by Bon-Thomas Henry, a French painter and patron of the arts, who donated his personal collection of 163 paintings to the town of Cherbourg in 1835. Henry's collection was valued at 120,000 francs and formed the basis of the museum's current collection. The museum was named after its founder and was officially inaugurated on July 29, 1835.
The Collection
The Musée Thomas Henry boasts an impressive collection of paintings, including works by famous artists such as Jean-François Millet, Jacques Louis David, and Jan Van Kessel The Elder. Some notable pieces in the collection include "Patroclus" by Jacques Louis David, "Louis Philippe and His Family in the Harbor of Cherbourg" by Jean Antoine Théodore De Gudin, and "Portrait de Javain, maire de Cherbourg (Maire de Cherbourg de 1830 à 1833)" by Jean-François Millet.
The museum also has a significant collection of works by local artists, providing a unique insight into the art history of the region. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Visiting the Musée Thomas Henry
The Musée Thomas Henry is located in Cherbourg-Octeville and is easily accessible by public transportation. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8:00 pm. Admission is free for all visitors.
The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The museum's website provides information on current exhibitions, events, and programming.
Conclusion
The Musée Thomas Henry is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in French art history. With its impressive collection of over 300 paintings, the museum offers a unique insight into the art history of Normandy and France as a whole. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just looking for something new to explore, the Musée Thomas Henry is sure to delight and inspire.