Museum Charles Milcendeau

In Soullans, the Charles Milcendeau Museum keeps a low profile. Charles Milcendeau (1872 – 1919) was one of the greatest draughtsmen of the late 19th century. He lived right here, at Bois Durant in Soullans, his "Sacred Wood". He trained at the Ecole Nationale des Beaux-Arts, with Gustave Moreau as his teacher. Recognised by the art critics of his day and exhibited in the most prestigious museums in France and abroad, Charles Milcendeau astonished people and made a name for himself thanks to the realism of his works illustrating the interiors of the market gardeners he loved so much and the landscapes he had seen on his many travels. In the modern, intimate museum dedicated to him, discover more than 80 works, some of which have never been exhibited before. In 2025, the temporary exhibition "Milcendeau, The Making of an Artist (1891-1914)", designated an "Exhibition of National Interest", will retrace his career from the time he entered the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts de Paris until the First World War. For the occasion, collectors' items, photos and works from the collections of the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée Gustave Moreau are on show in Soullans for the first time. You can also visit the authentic house in which he lived with his wife Marguerite. Listed as a Historic Monument and awarded the "Maisons des Illustres" label, the artist adorned the walls with Mozarabic-inspired paintings, giving it an undeniable charm. Finally, enjoy a moment out of time in the patio and paths of his garden. To discover the artistic world of Charles Milcendeau in all its forms, take advantage of the wide range of free events on offer, and follow the enthusiastic team on a tour, a workshop, a treasure hunt or an unusual night out!