Pagode rouge, Chinese-style pagoda in 8th arrondissement, France.
Pagode rouge is a multi-story building in the 8th arrondissement with a distinctive red painted facade and sloping roof that contrasts sharply with the classical Haussmann architecture surrounding it. The structure displays clearly different architectural elements inspired by Chinese design.
Chinese art dealer Ching Tsai Loo transformed a classical Haussmann building into this Chinese-inspired structure in 1926 despite neighborhood opposition. This radical conversion marked an unusual architectural break from the area's uniform design.
The building emerged as a hub where European and American collectors could acquire art and artifacts from China and Southeast Asia. Its distinctive red facade and sloped roof continue to express the artistic tastes of that era.
This private building can only be viewed from the street exterior and is not open to visitors inside. It sits near Parc Monceau and Musée Jacquemart-André, making it a convenient stop while walking through the neighborhood.
Inside the building are specialized display niches fitted with rotating pedestals that were originally designed to show statuary and art objects from different angles. This clever exhibition system was typical of high-end art galleries of the era.
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