Savoring Life in Paris:  visit the Jacquemart Andre’ Museum in Paris. Enjoy a Delicious Lunch and Stroll Home Along the Seine

There’s an excellent exhibition at the Jacquemart Andre’ Museum until July 11, showing the works of the Caillebotte brothers, one a talented impressionist painter and the other a talented photographer.  If you’re staying in one of our Paris apartment rentals, it’s an ideal start for a special day in Paris.  Take a leisurely stroll across the Seine to the Jacquemart Andre’ Museum in the 8th arrondissement — a beautiful walk to the river and through the famous Triangle d’Or in Paris of world class designer boutiques.  Explore the exhibition then treat yourself to a delicious lunch on the way home. This is what a stay in Paris is all about!

The Caillebotte Brothers: Few artists captured the spirit of Paris in the 1800’s than impressionist painter Gustave Caillebotte (1848 – 1894).  You’ll recognize many of his paintings on sight, for their brilliant reflection of life in Paris during the 1800’s.

Both Caillebotte brothers were fascinated by the new city that was being built in Haussman's era, including bridges and railways

Few people know that his brother Martial who was a talented photographer and composer.

Life in Paris -- Photographs by Martial Caillebotte

They were born to a wealthy entrepreneur who made his fortune manufacturing beds for the military. When he died, the sons inherited his wealth and spent the rest of their lives pursuing their passions — painting for Gustave and composing, then photography for Martial. They shared their many interests and remained close friends their entire lives – from boating to gardening and photography.

Martial Caillebotte became fascinated with photography

They photographed and painted life in Paris during this dynamic era, showing the hustle and bustle of Parisian streets, the building of brdges and railways which feature in many of Gustave’s paintings. They were fascinated by and privileged to witness the transformation of Paris under Haussman, living at 31 Blvd, Haussman, where they could stand on their balcony and watch the new city streets and buildings take shape.

Watching Paris and the transformation of the city from their window on Boulevard Haussman

Martial’s fascinating photographs of life in Paris are not as well known and the Jacquemart-André Museum has put together a special exhibition of the two brothers’ works.

The Caillebotte exhibition shows several paintings and photographs never seen before

If you’re in Paris between now and July 11, we recommend a visit to this exhibition at the Jacquemart Andre’, which is located not far from the apartment where they actually lived.  It’s a perfect way to spend the morning, then treat yourself to a delicious lunch before heading home.  Stop at the Four Seasons George V — in their 3 star Le Cinq or more affordable La Galerie.  The food is divine, the restaurant is stunning and opens on a beautiful interior garden.

The Plaza Athenee’ is another option, where you will savor Alain Ducasse’s cuisine.

Another favorite option is Lasserre, at 17 Av. Franklin D. roosevelt.  Set in the beautiful Champs Elysee’s gardens, this restaurant is an institution among Parisians, with a gorgeous settinga nd excellent food. Their specialties include macaroni stuffed with truffles and foie gras, turbot with cepe mushrooms and challots.

Another idea is the Maison Blanche is on the theatre of the Champs-Elysees at 15 Ave. Montaigne.  The location is superb, with a loft design and glass dome where you can see the dome of the Invalides. The menu has a Languedoc influence thanks to the cuisine of the Pourcel brothers who are from this region.

Jacquemart-Andre’ Museum 158 Blvd. Haussman, Paris 75008