Petit Palais

As its name suggests, this is not one of the larger palaces to be found in Paris, but the triumphal arch and various reliefs and sculptures in the entryway sure draw your attention.

Even though it’s situated in a veritable frenzy of art and sculpture, the large golden door still manages to shine through. The pretty domes are a sight to see and the building is unique for its semicircular form. There is a garden and a café inside.

The columns and statues on the sides seem to be in competition with those of the Grand Palais just next door, although they’re all special in their own right.

This small palace was designed to accompany the Grand Palais during the Universal Exposition in 1900 but now houses the Museum of Fine Arts and an amazing collection of French art.

Built around a precious semicircular courtyard, the palace is similar to the Grand Palais with its ionic columns, large pedestal, and dome reminiscent of that of Les Invalides across the river.

The exhibit is divided into different sections which house collections of furniture and objects from the 17th century as well as landscape and Impressionist works.

I caught this shot walking up the beautifufl spiral staircase in the Petit Palais. It captures both the Belle Epoque period in the staircase railing as well as a more modern, possibly Art Deco style, in the framing of the glass entry and ceiling fixture of the adjoining gallery. I was struck by the juxtaposition of the two different design approaches. There is a high level of sophistication and elegance that I think the French truly exemplify.