Du Côté des Renoir
Du Côté des Renoir is a museum in Essoyes dedicated to painter Auguste Renoir and his family, comprising several restored historic buildings. The site includes two connected former winegrowers' houses with a residential tower, an 1906 workshop, and gardens with flowering plants and fruit trees throughout the grounds.
Renoir purchased the property in 1896 for himself and his wife Aline, who was born in Essoyes, and used it as a summer residence until his death in 1919. The workshop was built in 1906 specifically to support his creative practice, where he completed numerous paintings despite growing physical challenges.
The name refers to Renoir's deep connection to Essoyes, where his wife Aline was born and the family spent numerous summers together. The village itself serves as an open-air extension, with locations he painted still visible today, such as the church, washhouse, and river that shaped both his work and daily life.
The museum operates on a seasonal schedule and requires advance reservations for groups and non-French speakers; check the website for current hours. Allow about 2 hours to explore the houses, workshop, and gardens, and note that the narrow village streets may affect parking and access options.
Renoir's wheelchair is displayed in the workshop, symbolizing his determination to continue painting despite declining health. This personal object moves many visitors and reveals the artist's remarkable dedication to his craft.
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