Maison Fournaise

Maison Fournaise, nestled on the Île des Impressionnistes in Chatou, France, is a treasure trove of history, art, and gastronomic delight. This charming establishment, which once served as a guinguette (a popular riverside drinking and dancing venue) and hotel, now houses a restaurant and a museum dedicated to its storied past and the vibrant culture of boating that once thrived along the Seine.

The Historical Tapestry of Maison Fournaise

The origins of Maison Fournaise date back to 1844, when the first structure was erected at the foot of what was then a stone road bridge. At that time, the area already boasted a wine merchant's shop, a humble tavern, and boatyards. In 1857, Alphonse Fournaise, a bridge master, acquired the property and, along with his wife Louise, transformed it into a bustling restaurant and boat rental business. This marked the beginning of Chatou's reputation as a boating hub.

Over the years, Alphonse Fournaise made numerous modifications to the building, expanding it and replacing the wooden balcony railing with a more durable cast iron one. The Île des Impressionnistes became a fashionable destination where Parisians flocked to enjoy the scenic beauty and leisure activities. Under the Fournaise banner, the establishment became a renowned phalanstère de canotiers (a haven for boaters), as described by the famous writer Guy de Maupassant.

Renoir and the Impressionists

Maison Fournaise holds a special place in the annals of art history, thanks to its association with the Impressionist movement. The celebrated painter Auguste Renoir frequented the establishment, creating numerous masterpieces that captured the essence of the locale and its patrons. His iconic painting, Luncheon of the Boating Party, completed in 1880, immortalizes the vibrant social scene at Maison Fournaise. Renoir also painted Les Deux Sœurs (The Two Sisters) in 1881, further cementing the location's artistic legacy.

But Renoir was not the only artist drawn to Maison Fournaise. The establishment welcomed a host of Impressionist and plein air painters, including Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Gustave Caillebotte. Some artists, like Maurice Réalier-Dumas, even contributed to the decoration of the venue's rooms and facade, adding to its artistic charm.

A Period of Decline and Revival

Despite its storied past, Maison Fournaise fell into disrepair and closed its doors in the early 20th century. The once-vibrant venue languished for decades until the commune of Chatou acquired it in 1979. Recognizing its historical significance, the building was listed in the supplementary inventory of historical monuments in 1982. A comprehensive restoration project, initiated by the city of Chatou with support from the state, region, department, and two associations (Les Amis de la Maison Fournaise and Friends of French Art), brought the building back to life.

In 1990, Maison Fournaise reopened as a restaurant, once again welcoming guests to enjoy its picturesque setting and culinary delights.

The Fournaise Museum

In 1992, the upper rooms of Maison Fournaise were transformed into the Fournaise Museum. The museum, under the stewardship of its first curator Benoît Noël, houses an impressive collection of paintings and documents that chronicle the history of the site and the golden age of boating on the Seine. The museum also hosts exhibitions that explore contemporary artistic movements of the Impressionist era.

The Museum's Collection

The museum's collection is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the region. It features works by artists such as André Derain, Ferdinand Heilbuth, Albert Lebourg, Maurice Réalier-Dumas, Gustave Maincent, Adrien Karbowsky, and Charles Camoin, among others. These artists, often referred to as the petits maîtres des bords de Seine (little masters of the Seine banks), captured the idyllic landscapes and lively scenes of the area.

The collection also includes a sculpture by Renoir, ceramics by André Methey and Maurice de Vlaminck, engravings (including works by Michel Ciry), humorous drawings, and memorabilia related to Guy de Maupassant. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of boating and the Impressionist era.

Visiting Maison Fournaise Today

Today, Maison Fournaise stands as a beacon of history and culture on the Île des Impressionnistes. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the restaurant, where they can savor traditional French cuisine while soaking in the ambiance that once inspired some of the greatest artists of the 19th century. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of the site and its artistic legacy, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Maison Fournaise is not just a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the enduring charm of the Seine and the artistic spirit that once flourished along its banks. Whether you are a lover of art, history, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax and unwind, Maison Fournaise promises an unforgettable experience.