© Musee des Arts Decoratifs et du Design Bordeaux
© Musee des Arts Decoratifs et du Design Bordeaux
© Musee des Arts Decoratifs et du Design Bordeaux
Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Bordeaux
Decorative arts museum situated in a mansion in the heart of Bordeaux
Housed in the 18th century Hôtel de Lalande, the museum of decorative arts has a collection of sculptures, ceramics, glass and silverware in its panelled rooms.
Many items date from the 17th to 19th centuries, though a new 20th and 21st century section has been opened housing over 150 works in the stables area of the building.
Learn more about the evolution of furniture, ceramics, glass, musical instruments and silverware throughout the centuries. The collection is focused on French pieces, particularly from the Bordeaux area.
Worth knowing
The building itself, like many others in the city has an interesting history.
Built between 1775 and 1779 by the Bordeaux architect Etienne Laclotte for Pierre Raymond de Lalande, a member of the French parliament. It was then confiscated during the Revolution, and passed through several hands before being bought in 1880 by the city. They then destroyed the garden area in order to install a prison. In 1924 the city created a Museum of Ancient Art and in 1955 it underwent major reconstruction. It wasn't until 1984 that the building became the Museum of Decorative Arts with the prison area becoming the workshops and activity rooms.
Visitor comments
- "Situated in an old merchant's house, there is an excellent display of period furniture and porcelain. When I went there was also a modern art perspective in some of the rooms. There were cards in each room in English and Spanish explaining the contents as well as them being labeled in French. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable. Situated close to the Beaux Arts museum so you could do what I did and visit both on the same day." - Trip Advisor
- "Although small, the museum contains lots of decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present day arranged in themed rooms. One room is a boutique – a shop – with handmade items such as pottery and jewellery for sale. Taking photos without flash is permitted. There was a good amount of information in English on the hand-held boards at the entrance to each room." - Trip Advisor
- "This 18th century mansion houses decorative items in the homes of wealthy residents of Bordeaux. An interesting visit" - Trip Advisor
When to come
The museum is open daily from 11:00 to 18:00 (closed on Tuesdays and public holidays).
How to get passes
Tickets cost 4€, reduced to 2€ for the unemployed, students, groups of 10 people or more. Free every first Sunday of the month (except July & August) and children under 18.
