These are two museums featuring primarily the work of impressionist masters. The Musee d'Orsay wins the award for most stunning setting of the two impressive museums. It is housed in a former railway station that was only used as such from 1900 to the early 1940's when increasing electrification of the rail network meant its platforms were too short for mainline trains. The station was used as a mailing center during WWII, and by Orson Welles in 1962 for the filming of Kafka's The Trial. Luckily it was saved from demolition by its listing as a historical monument in 1973, and opened in 1986 as a museum.
Even the cafe on the 5th floor is quite a sight:
The view from the 5th floor outside deck:
The Musee de l'Orangerie is set in a 19th century orangery built to shelter the Jardin des Tuileries in the winter. It is most well-known for its two oval rooms that house Monet's Decorations des Nympheas (Waterlilies), built specially per the artist's instructions in 1927. There is also an impressive collection of works including many by Cezanne, Renoir, Matisse, Picasso, and others. We really enjoyed the special exhibition of works by Emile Bernard - works created from the late 1880's (when he was in his 20's) to the 1920's showed the continuing evolution of his artistic style.
Standing by Rodin's The Kiss, located in front of the Musee de l'Orangerie.
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