Ennery Museum

The Musée d’Ennery, located in the refined 16th arrondissement of Paris, is a hidden treasure dedicated to Asian art, particularly Japanese and Chinese art collections. Founded by the writer and collector Clémence d’Ennery, the museum is housed in a magnificent 19th-century hôtel particulier, which preserves the intimate atmosphere of a private residence enriched with extraordinary art objects. Clémence d’Ennery (1823-1898), wife of playwright Adolphe Philippe d’Ennery, began collecting Asian art in the late 19th century, at a time when Europe was discovering and appreciating the aesthetics of the East through the japonisme movement. Her collection includes over 7,000 objects, including porcelain, ivory, bronze, lacquer, netsuke (Japanese miniature carvings), and Noh theater, gathered with refined taste and inexhaustible passion. A visit to the Musée d’Ennery is a fascinating experience that allows you to explore the rooms of an ancient residence, where each room has been meticulously arranged to display the artworks harmoniously. Among the most precious pieces in the collection are Chinese porcelain from the Ming and Qing periods, characterized by intricate decorations and brilliant glazes, and Japanese ivory statuettes, reflecting the skill of Eastern craftsmen. The netsuke collection is particularly remarkable for the variety of subjects and materials. These small objects, used as toggles for traditional Japanese bags, are true masterpieces of miniature sculpture, depicting animals, mythological figures, and everyday scenes with extraordinary precision and delicacy. Each netsuke tells a story and offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and traditions. Another fascinating section of the museum is dedicated to Noh theater, one of Japan’s oldest theatrical forms. The collection includes masks and costumes used in performances, which are true masterpieces of craftsmanship. Noh masks, carved from wood and painted with extreme care, represent various characters from the theatrical repertoire and are characterized by expressions that can change appearance depending on the angle of light. The Hôtel d’Ennery itself is a masterpiece of architecture, with richly decorated interiors reflecting the eclectic style of the late 19th century. The rooms, with high ceilings, elaborate wood paneling, and monumental fireplaces, create an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication, providing a perfect setting for the art collection. Visitors can stroll through sumptuous salons, dining rooms, and libraries, immersing themselves in the unique environment of a historic residence. An interesting anecdote concerns the founder Clémence d’Ennery, who dedicated much of her life to collecting and studying Oriental arts. Her passion led her to attend the most important auctions in Europe and to establish relationships with art dealers and other collectors. Her collection, considered one of the most complete and refined of her time, was donated to the French state upon her death, with the clause that it be kept intact and accessible to the public.