The Musée d'Orsay: Where a casual visit can turn into the encounter of a lifetime.

Located in the seventh arrondissement of Paris, the Musée d’Orsay houses the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist works. Being both an artist and art lover, this was one of my most anticipated stops during my time in France. However, I was wary that I would find the museum slightly lacking after spending most of my trip walking through a large part of Paris and appreciating the breathtaking aesthetics of the Louvre. Between the stunning architecture and sculpture slipped into the everyday cityscape, it is no surprise that it was once considered an art capital of the world. I expected that by the time I got to the Musée d’Orsay, I would have seen every combination possible. Upon entering the Musée d’Orsay, it appeared I was correct. Nothing quite special stood out to me, and as I walked through each gallery I slowly became less interested in each passing work.

After a while the identifying marks of each impressionist began to blend together, surrounding me in a blurry swirl of color. At this point, I had made the decision to leave and was making my way towards the exit. However, as I was about to pass the last gallery before the doors, I felt a force beckon me to come inside; as if one last look was needed before saying goodbye to the museum as a whole. Although I was already tired, I made the last minute decision to turn around and enter. I walked into a room painted in rusty maroon. By doing a quick glance around, I took in the last few paintings but something–or shall I say someone–caught my eye. Sitting on its own wall and staring at me in a state of shock and despair was none other than The Desperate Man by Gustave Cobert. Painted with a high contrasting color palette of dark browns and bright whites, Cobert depicts himself with his hands tangled into his hair as he pierces his viewer’s gaze with an expression of pure distress. This romantic style painting was made in 1843 in response to finding out about his partner’s infidelity. I was drawn to it, and felt a deep connection to the work. This painting brought me close to tears, and I felt a strange sense of emotional relief and beauty overcome me. The Desperate Man has been a work of art that I have studied and been a big admirer of for years. So much so, that a few months prior to going on the trip I did a self portrait loosely based off of the painting. I never thought that I would have the opportunity to study the piece as closely as I did at that moment. Safe to say, I was able to find a bench and take everything in–one delicate detail at a time. 

For the rest of the time I was in Paris–and even now that I am back home–I was mindful to absorb everything slowly. As tempting as it can be to rush through artwork, this experience goes to show you just never know what you might find. Perhaps more of the same, perhaps a hidden gem. And who knows? You might just be met face to face with a desperate man who has been waiting for you since you entered the room.