Paris - Cluny Museum - 5me

Plate XLVI - The Cluny Museum…

I am fascinated by the unexplained and the quirky.

This door to nowhere certainly caught my attention. I am sure that somewhere in the history of the occupation of this building by the abbots of Cluny there is logical explanation for its existence, but today it escapes the visitor completely.

For anyone interested in the art of tapisserie a visit to this museum is a must. Officially known as the National Museum of the Middle Ages, it is here that the 15th century tapestry cycle of six tapestries known as the Lady of the Unicorn (La Dame à la Licorne) may be seen. The central and main piece - measuring 3.73 metres by 3.58 - is simply magnificent to behold. Displayed in low lighting to protect the subtle medieval colourings the six works take pride of place in a collection of medieval and renaissance works primarily founded on the collection of Alexandre du Sommerand.

The museum building – the Hôtel de Cluny partially covers the remains of the 3rd century Roman baths the Thermes de Cluny, which may also be visited. Works on display include medieval sculptures and art, illuminated religious manuscripts and the carved heads of the Biblical kings severed during the Revolution from the statues on Notre Dame, and recovered during excavations near the Cathedral.