Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The property of the Meissonniers in Poissy comes from the former orangery of the Hotel de Mailly, built during the first half of the 19th century on the site of a medieval priory. Acquised in 1846 by the painter Ernest Meissonier, it was profoundly redesigned with the help of architect Émile Boeswillwald. The works, spread over a decade, include the elevation of the building, the addition of a workshop on the third level with terrace, as well as the construction of stables and a cottage serving as a summer workshop and photographic studio for his son Charles. Meissonnier himself contributed to interior decors, such as the wall sketches of the stairwell and fireplace.

The property's architecture is distinguished by its sitting apparatus alternating with red and beige bricks, as well as its translucent stained glass windows adorning the workshop windows. According to the family tradition, Ernest Meissonier designed the picture of the staircase balustrade. In 1862, after the completion of the works, he expanded the estate by acquiring the neighbouring property, setting up an extended garden and a house for his son Charles. The whole, including the houses of the Meissonniers and the grounds of the estate, was classified as a Historical Monument by order of 14 December 1992.

This place embodies both the artistic heritage of Ernest Meissonier, famous 19th century academic painter, and the architectural know-how of Émile Boeswillwald, a major figure in the restoration of historical monuments in France. The property thus illustrates the dialogue between artistic creation and built heritage, while at the same time testifying to the transformations in the use of a building over time, from aristocratic orangery to artist residence. The location in Poissy, in the Yvelines, makes it a remarkable example of the Franciscan heritage linked to the visual arts.

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