Rosa Bonheur Museum

On the edge of the Fontainebleau Forest in Seine-et-Marne, France, the Château de By is home to the Rosa Bonheur Museum. This unique museum celebrates the life and legacy of Rosa Bonheur, a renowned 19th-century French painter celebrated for her animal art. Restored and reopened in 2018 by Katherine Brault, the château offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Bonheur's world.

A Painter's Sanctuary

In 1859, Rosa Bonheur purchased the Château de By at the height of her fame, becoming the first woman in France to buy a property with her earnings. She transformed the château into a serene haven where she could live among the animals she loved and found inspiration for her work. Architect Jules Saulnier designed a neo-Gothic studio for Bonheur, filled with natural light, where she worked for 40 years. Her dedication to innovation made the château one of the first homes in the area to have electricity.

Bonheur's achievements extended beyond her art. In 1865, Empress Eugénie visited the château to award her the Légion d’Honneur, making Bonheur the first female artist to receive this distinction.

The Museum Experience

The museum remains almost untouched since Bonheur's death in 1899, preserving her daily life and artistic spirit. Highlights include a Native American costume gifted by Buffalo Bill and a desk displaying a musical composition written in her honor by Georges Bizet. While her paintings are now in museums worldwide, the space offers an intimate look at her life.

Visitors can explore not just the studio but also the beautiful three-hectare park, a tearoom, a boutique, and guest accommodations, making it more than just a museum—a fully immersive experience.

A Passionate Revival

In 2017, Katherine Brault and her family acquired the property from descendants of Anna Klumpke, Bonheur's heir and devoted caretaker. Brault, inspired by a profound connection to the site, dedicated herself to restoring the château and preserving its authenticity. Her efforts earned the museum recognition in the 2019 French heritage lottery, which helped fund the restoration.

Brault’s vision combines history and modern engagement. Alongside conserving Bonheur’s legacy, she aims to create a research center, archive collection, and cultural events. This reimagined space connects visitors to the past while fostering a vibrant cultural community.