Musee des Arts Decoratifs

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs is a treasure trove of design and craftsmanship, located in the Palais du Louvre's Rohan wing. Its vast collection spans over a thousand years, featuring everything from Gothic furniture and Renaissance tapestries to Art Nouveau glassware and contemporary fashion. The museum is organized into thematic galleries, including a renowned fashion and textile department with rotating exhibitions of haute couture, and a jewelry gallery displaying exquisite pieces from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and others. Visitors can also explore period rooms that recreate historic interiors, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of French aristocracy. What sets this museum apart is its focus on the applied arts, making it a must-visit for design enthusiasts and anyone interested in the evolution of style. The museum's location within the Louvre complex means you can easily combine a visit with the main Louvre museum or a stroll through the Tuileries Garden.

Don't miss

• Explore period rooms from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including a reconstructed Art Deco salon
• Admire the fashion gallery with iconic pieces from designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior
• See the jewelry collection featuring masterpieces from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Boucheron
• Visit the temporary exhibitions on design, fashion, and decorative arts (check schedule)
• Don't miss the glassware and ceramics collection, including works by Émile Gallé and René Lalique

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Know before you go

• Large bags and backpacks must be checked in the cloakroom.
• Photography is allowed in most galleries, but flash and tripods are prohibited.
• The museum has a café and a restaurant, perfect for a break during your visit.
• The museum shop sells design books, jewelry reproductions, and unique gifts.

A bit of history

The museum was founded in 1905 as a branch of the Union Centrale des Arts Décoratifs, an organization dedicated to promoting decorative arts. It moved to its current location in the Louvre in 1905 and has since expanded its collections through donations and acquisitions.