Hotel de Berny Museum

Nestled in the charming city of Amiens, the Hotel de Berny Museum, known locally as Musée de l'Hôtel de Berny, is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the art and history of the Picardy region. This museum, housed in a stunning Louis XIII-style mansion, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of northern France. Although currently closed for renovations, the museum remains a symbol of regional pride and historical intrigue.

The History of the Hotel de Berny Museum

The story of the Hotel de Berny Museum begins with Gérard de Berny, a former senator of the Somme, who bequeathed his private mansion and its extensive collection to the city of Amiens in 1957. His vision was to create a museum dedicated to the art and history of Picardy. The mansion itself dates back to the early 17th century, originally constructed between 1633 and 1634 for the Treasurers of France in Picardy.

Over the centuries, the mansion underwent several transformations. In the 19th century, it was remodeled by the Marquis de Landreville, who added architectural features designed by Louis Henry Antoine and the Duthoit brothers. These enhancements included intricate sculptures and lavish interior decorations, which still captivate visitors today.

Exploring the Collections

The museum's collections are a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts. Visitors can admire a monumental fireplace in the dining room, supported by atlantes attributed to Jean Goujon. This masterpiece once graced the Hotel de Robert de Montesquiou in Neuilly-sur-Seine. The museum also boasts exquisite 17th-century tapestries and 18th-century woodwork, including pieces from the Château de La Grange-Bléneau and the Abbey of Corbie.

The furniture collection is equally impressive, featuring Louis XV and Louis XVI pieces like Aubusson tapestry-covered armchairs illustrating La Fontaine's Fables. These masterpieces are signed by renowned craftsmen such as François Foliot, Sené père, and Pierre Roussel. Additionally, the museum houses ceramics from Montières, paintings by artists like Lagrenée and Isabey, and pastels by Choderlos de Laclos.

The Pavilion of the Zodiac

One of the museum's most intriguing spaces is the Pavilion of the Zodiac, constructed in the 1930s as a music room. This pavilion features magnificent 18th-century woodwork from the Château de Long, crafted by the Huet brothers. The decor, representing zodiac signs, was painted by Pierre-Adrien Choquet. Among the musical treasures here are a remarkable harpsichord by Ioannes Ruckers, dating back to 1612, and a Louis XVI-style harp.

The Gardens

The gardens of the Hotel de Berny Museum are a serene retreat, designed by Gérard de Berny himself. They comprise four distinct areas: a Japanese garden, a French formal garden, a romantic cloister garden, and a Moorish garden. At the heart of the French garden, a high terrace features a central basin surrounded by boxwood spheres. A Gothic cloister draped in ivy adds a touch of mystery, while fountains, sculptures, and ornate vases complete the enchanting landscape.

A Legacy of Picardy

The Hotel de Berny Museum is more than just a repository of art and history; it is a celebration of Picardy's cultural legacy. The museum's collections include memorabilia related to notable figures such as Vincent Voiture, Jean-Baptiste Gresset, Choderlos de Laclos, Jules Verne, Édouard Branly, and Marshal Leclerc. These pieces offer a personal connection to the region's illustrious past.

Although the museum is currently closed for renovations, its legacy endures as a beacon of regional pride and historical intrigue. When it reopens, visitors will once again have the opportunity to explore its treasures and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Picardy's art and history. Until then, the Hotel de Berny Museum remains a cherished symbol of Amiens' cultural heritage, waiting to welcome history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.