artists | A French Collection

The Thinker by Auguste Rodin – Rodin Museum

The Thinker by Auguste Rodin - Rodin Museum, Paris

The Thinker is a famous sculpture by French sculptor François Auguste René that is part of the collection of Rodin sculptures at the Rodin Museum ( Musée Rodin) in Paris.

The Rodin Museum is located in a classic 18th-century mansion called Hôtel Biron, which is nestled just behind Les Invalides in the 7th arrondissement. The elegant, two-story hôtel particulier overlooks seven acres of manicured lawns, rose gardens, and sculptures by Rodin dotted amongst rows of perfectly-pruned trees.

The History of Montmartre, Paris

The History of Montmartre

"From the days of the pilgrimages, in the Middle Ages, Montmartre has always been a spot where barriers are dropped and pleasures are indulged.

With a history stretching back 2,000 years, the village of Montmartre blends religious mysticism, cabaret life and the full-range of the arts." - Montmartre Office of Tourism

Santons of Provence: A French Tradition

Santons of Provence

Santons of Provence: A Christmas Tradition

Santons of Provence – Christmas is celebrated in a special way in Provence with little figurines called Santons.

They are a lovely French tradition. Santons are used to create a nativity scene (crèche) with the key religious figurines of Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus together with the people of the south of France.

The most popular Santons representing the people from southern France are the baker, butcher, shepherd, fisherman, wood cutter, washer-woman and vintner. Many of the trades are represented by the Santons and adding these folk to the nativity scene is what makes this Christmas tradition unique to Provence.

Annette Charlton

Annette lives with her family between their homes in France and Australia. She’s been featured in International magazines including French Property News, on numerous blogs and travel websites and appeared on ABC National Radio. You can connect on Instagram or Facebook.

www.afrenchcollection.com

Paul Durand-Ruel – A French Impressionist Art Dealer

Pierre-Auguste Renoir - Two Sisters

Who Was Paul Durand-Ruel?

The Early Days of Paul Durand-Ruel

Paul Durand-Ruel (1831-1922), born to shopkeepers Jean Durand and Marie Ruel, was a staunch supporter and art dealer of the unappreciated and reviled French Impressionists. It can be said that Paul Durand-Ruel gave the world the Impressionists and their paintings and that we enjoy them due to his vision.

Annette Charlton