DEGAS HOUSE
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As his name indicates, it was the residence of the maternal family of Edgar Degas, the famous French Impressionist painter whose mother was a New Orleans Creole. The painter stayed there during a trip in 1872-1873 and painted 18 paintings, including the famous Cotton office in New Orleans at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau. For lovers, imagine sleeping in his own room, breathing the same atmosphere and who knows, maybe still some genius here or there who waits for you… This majestic residence, typical of New Orleans of the th century, has a large quiet courtyard illuminated in the evening, for the greatest pleasure of the guests. The comfortable and spacious rooms are located on the two floors of the house. All are different with vintage furniture. The most majestic room is named «Estelle», with its balcony overlooking the beautiful Esplanade Avenue, adorned with its bicentennial oak-nests. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the places with Degas's great nièce rear! A charming address for a trip over time.
Only complaint we had were our neighbors, they were extremely extremely loud
The trees in front of homes were planted in 1820. Edgar Degas visited for 4 or 5 months from starting late 1872. Seems he really didn’t like the heat and never had anything good to say about NOLA. But it’s where he started painting ‘Impressionism’ but he said he was a ‘realist’! Seems Degas never really appreciated NOLA although he had his breakthrough there. He also wrote about the many skins colors in NOLA but only painted Caucasian’s. Maybe because his mothers blood line had African descendants…
His uncle was renting the house (1869-1879) never owned it. When Degas visited there were 18 people living there. The story is filled with family drama. His brother Rene’ married his first cousin on mom side which I guess this was their way! When he left her for the neighbor this split the 2 families.
The tour included a parlor which is now a dining area for brunch and the actual dining room. We also toured the room where he stayed in while visiting.
I read about DeGas so most of the information I already knew. There is a 30 minute film shown before tour.
I recommend touring this house if in area. The cost is $30 but they give senior/military discount. I paid $26. You can also stay at house. The Le Musee museum is almost next to it and I highly recommend this tour because it’s outstanding!!