VY211 The Arsenal Library: Part of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France

The library owes its name to its location amidst the Paris Arsenal founded by Louis XII and François I in the 16th century. Rebuilt in the 17th century for Sully, it was enlarged in the 18th century for the Duke of Maine. Antoine René d’Argenson, Marquis de Paulmy had assembled a magnificent collection, particularly rich in medieval manuscripts and prints and bequeathed it to the library. In 1786 he also acquired the collection of the duc de la Vallière, but then sold the entire library to the comte d'Artois, brother of King Louis XVI.

The actual Arsenal Library is part of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France.

We will discover the splendid Cabinet La Meilleraye, once the Grand Master of the Arsenal, and the charming music room, together with the reading rooms of the library.

Instructor: Catherine Estivalezes holds a PhD in British and American Studies from the Sorbonne and has been involved for years in a foundation for promoting contemporary art, before getting back to art history studies. She has several years of experience in guiding, including districts, monuments, museums, and temporary exhibitions.