Maison d'Abraham, 16th-century timber house in Sens, France
Maison d'Abraham is a timber-framed house located at the corner of Rue de la République and Rue Jean-Cousin in Sens. The structure features detailed wooden carvings throughout its facade and displays the characteristic architecture of Renaissance-era residential buildings.
Built in the 16th century for Nicolas Mégissier, a tanner, the house is marked by a carved ornament showing tools of his trade. The building received official heritage protection in 1923 and remains a testament to the wealth and craftsmanship of Renaissance merchants.
The building takes its name from a carved pillar showing the biblical genealogy, with eight kings of Israel depicted in the woodwork. This religious imagery was meaningful to the community of Sens during the Renaissance.
The house stands in the old town at a major intersection, making it easy to locate and visit on foot. Visitors can view and photograph the exterior facade at any time while walking through the central streets of Sens.
The house once went by multiple names including House of Four Winds, referencing its prominent corner location where two main streets meet. It also appeared as a source of inspiration for a celebrated 19th-century French novel.
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