Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Old Café Bar, located at the corner of Rue du Temple and Rue de Montmorency in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris, dates from the first quarter of the 20th century. Its interior decoration, classified as Monument Historique in 1984, is distinguished by four panels of faience not signed or dated, illustrating 17th century Parisian scenes: the Temple Tower, the Orfèvres Pier, the Guise Hotel and the Barbette Hotel. These works, inspired perhaps by models from the Gilliot house or the faienceries of Sarreguemines, depict a lively daily life, with carts, stalls and characters in period costume. The rest of the decor, composed of flowered tiles, stylized friezes and geometric motifs, completes this remarkable ensemble, now hidden by the current layout of a toy shop.

The shop itself, with a common architectural style but of good quality, has partially preserved its exterior wood formwork, although the original windows and inscriptions have disappeared. Inside, the colourful palm tree, floral base and white tiles contrast with the harsh green tones of the outside wood. Although transformed, this place bears witness to the decorative art of Parisian cafes of the early 20th century, mixing historical influences and ceramic handicrafts. The panels, although hidden, remain a rare example of an idealized representation of ancient Paris, part of a tradition of narrative decorations inspired by 19th-century prints and wallpapers.

The location of the Ancien Café-Bar, at 105 rue du Temple, enjoys an accuracy considered fair (note 5/10), while its protected interior decor recalls the heritage importance of Parisian social sites. The photographs available, such as those of Albert Bergonzo under Creative Commons license, make it possible to appreciate the details of this decor today inaccessible to the public. The inscription in the title of the Historical Monuments in 1984 highlights the artistic value of these faiences, despite the absence of a precise signature or date, allowing questions to be raised about their artisans and their exact sources of inspiration.

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