Jean Jacques Régis de Cambacéres arriving at his townhouse on Rue Saint Nicaise
Oil on wooden panel
Carved and gilded wooden Empire period frame
Numerous labels on the back:
– Early 19th-century French School, The Hôtel Cambacérès in the Cour du Carrousel No. 208 – ‘Vues de Paris’ exhibition, Knoedler Gallery, New York, 1939, No. 6 – ‘The Restoration’ exhibition, René Drouin Gallery, 1943 – ‘Paris’ exhibition, Charpentier Gallery, 1944–1945 – Packing and transport by Gougeon, Mr Cailleux at 136 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
Early 19th century
H 29 L 41 cm et avec cadre H 41 cm L 53 cm
Upon his appointment, Cambacérès chose to take up residence at the Hôtel d’Elbeuf, on Rue Saint-Nicaise and opposite the Place du Carrousel, rather than at the Tuileries like the other two consuls. He had it furnished using items from the Mobilier National’s reserves in order to fulfil the role of permanent representative befitting the second-highest-ranking figure in the State. By organising sumptuous receptions, Cambacérès demonstrated the continuity of high-society customs through changes of regime and achieved the social prestige he had always sought. The splendour surrounding him is clearly evident in this impressive carriage and team of horses as he made his entrance. The Hôtel d’Elbeuf was rebuilt on the site of the former Hôtel de Créquy in 1755 by Catherine de Rougé, Duchess of Elbeuf. From the time Cambacérès took up residence there, it was also known as the Hôtel des Cent Suisses, and it was demolished in 1838.
This view is also completely unprecedented today, as all the buildings surrounding the Place du Carrousel and along the Grand Gallery were demolished to create a clear line of sight between the Louvre and the Tuileries palaces.
This painting has been featured in numerous exhibitions, as evidenced by the various labels affixed to the back, which demonstrate the appeal of this view of Paris.
