Paris never ceases to amaze! The City of Light hides some truly fascinating places within its walls: secret courtyards frequented by artists, bucolic passages and legendary cafés… Today, we’d like to introduce you to a nearly 200-year-old institution: Deyrolle. A unique and eclectic store, Deyrolle is the oldest curiosity cabinet in Paris. With its antique teaching boards, stuffed animals and works of art, this wonderful place is sure to enchant you!
Deyrolle: the oldest cabinet of curiosities in Paris
Founded in 1831 by Jean-Baptiste Deyrolle, a preparator at the Brussels Museum, he opened his store here. At the time, Deyrolle’s aim was to supply personal collections and natural science museums. His passion for entomology was passed on to his three sons, who became expert taxidermists.
Little by little, the store diversified its offer by creating educational boards, which even adorned the walls of French schools and were translated into several languages. Themes dear to the family included osteology, anatomy, zoology and mineralogy. An educational vocation that continues to this day!
Here you’ ll find an unusual collection of rare and precious objects, insects, flowers, minerals and works of art! A dodo skull may well share its shelf with a butterfly sculpture or a tribal mask. A true ode to nature, just as rich as a real natural history museum.
A two-hundred-year-old boutique that almost went up in flames…
In 2008, the Deyrolle boutique experienced the unthinkable… A terrible fire ravaged the store, attacking not only the magnificent woodwork that made the place so charming, but also, and above all, the immense collection! Almost 90% of the collection went up in flames… The whole world was moved: artists, regulars and anonymous visitors. As an ode to life, the boutique mobilized several artists to create works from the remains of the fire! These 10 artists created unique, sometimes deeply moving works, which were sold to raise funds for the restoration of the site.
Seventeen years after the tragedy, the store has risen from the ashes to regain its former splendor. You’ll be amazed by its regularly renewed scenography and unique atmosphere. Throughout the year, Deyrolle hosts exhibitions and collaborates with artists.
A cabinet of curiosities celebrating nature and the living world, a must-see at least once in your life!
📍Location: 46 rue du bac 75007 Paris