Plaza Athénée: a free exhibition unveils Michel Bassompierre’s animal sculptures

Spring in Paris is full of surprises for art lovers. A free exhibition is currently on show in the salons of the Plaza Athénée, the legendary palace on Avenue Montaigne. Sculptor Michel Bassompierre’s fascinating bronze bestiary will run until June 30, 2025.

A monumental bestiary in the heart of a Parisian palace

Imagine pushing open the doors of a legendary hotel and coming face to face with a life-size gorilla. That’s the unique experience offered by this free exhibition, nestled in the heart of the Plaza Athénée. Michel Bassompierre’s works interact with the hotel’s Art Deco decor.

The artist, renowned for his bronze animal sculptures, presents here a selection of major pieces. Among them are majestic bears, powerful horses and expressive apes. Each sculpture captures the natural light of the living rooms with a rare intensity.

This encounter between contemporary art and the hotel’s heritage creates a singular atmosphere. Visitors can wander freely between the works. There are no barriers separating the public from the bronzes, reinforcing the intimacy with the creations.

“I seek to capture the very essence of the animal, its raw presence and natural dignity.”

Michel Bassompierre, sculptor of the living

Born in 1948, Michel Bassompierre has devoted his life to animal sculpture for over forty years. His work draws on patient observation of the animal world. Each piece requires months of painstaking work.

The artist favors the lost-wax technique for his bronzes. This time-honored method produces remarkably fine details. Coat textures, taut muscles and piercing glances bear witness to this mastery.

• La Guêpe: monumental sculpture of an oversized insect
• Gorillas: a series of great apes with very human postures
• Bears: imposing figures capturing the animal’s power
• The horse: a work celebrating equine nobility
• Primates: movement and expression studies

A free exhibition open to all in an exceptional setting

The Plaza Athénée opens its doors to the general public for this extraordinary free exhibition. Reservations are not required to view the works. Just turn up at the hotel reception desk during opening hours.

This initiative democratizes access to art in a place usually reserved for a privileged clientele. As a result, everyone can discover the palace’s sumptuous interiors. It’s a rare opportunity to cross this threshold without paying a cent.

Children are welcome on this artistic journey. Families can share a cultural moment in a refined environment. The striking realism of the animal sculptures is particularly fascinating for the youngest visitors.

What’s more, the location makes it easy to visit. Avenue Montaigne is just a stone’s throw from the Champs-Élysées. A stroll through the Golden Triangle can therefore be extended by this artistic stopover.

Practical information for your visit

This free exhibition is held at the Plaza Athénée, 25 avenue Montaigne, Paris 8e. It remains open from March 15 to June 30, 2025. Opening hours correspond to those of the palace.

The nearest metro station is Alma-Marceau on line 9. Franklin D. Roosevelt also serves the area on lines 1 and 9. Visitors by car can use the nearby parking lots.

When animal art takes over prestigious venues

This collaboration between an artist and a luxury hotel is part of a strong trend. Luxury hotels are now multiplying their cultural partnerships. These initiatives reinforce their image while providing a showcase for artists.

For Michel Bassompierre, the setting of the Plaza Athénée magnifies his creations. The high ceilings allow the installation of monumental pieces. Likewise, the noble materials of the décor echo the patinated bronze of the sculptures.

Visitors can also enjoy a free exhibition in optimal conditions. Careful lighting brings out the best in each work. The hushed calm of the salons invites contemplation, far from the hustle and bustle of crowded museums.

This Paris presentation could travel to other prestigious venues. The artist regularly exhibits in France and abroad. His works can be found in numerous private collections around the world.

• free exhibition