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Contents
Orangerie Museum tickets
Super Combo: Louvre Museum + Palace of Versailles, Eiffel Tower or Orsay Museum Tickets
Mobile ticket
Audio guide
Guided tour
More details
from
€52.47
Quick facts about Monet's Water Lilies
- Monet created over 250 paintings in the Water Lilies series, focusing on his garden in Giverny.
- The Orangerie Museum's Water Lilies rooms were designed in collaboration with Monet to enhance the viewing experience.
- Monet's failing eyesight in his later years influenced the abstract quality of the Water Lilies series.
- The paintings were donated to the French state after Monet's death and have been displayed at the Orangerie since 1927.
Why visit the Water Lilies?
- A Masterpiece of Impressionism: The Water Lilies series is a pivotal work in the Impressionist movement, showcasing Monet's revolutionary approach to capturing light, color, and atmosphere. It's a prime example of how art can evoke emotion and immerse the viewer in a specific natural setting.
- An immersive experience: Housed in the Nymphéas rooms in the museum, these large-scale canvases are arranged to create an almost panoramic effect. This allows viewers to feel surrounded by the water lilies in an immersive and meditative experience of color and light.
- Tranquility and reflection: Monet's delicate brushwork and masterful use of color create a profound sense of tranquility and reflection. Visitors are invited to slow down, contemplate the natural world, and find a moment of peace amidst the bustling city.
- Monet's personal vision: The paintings are inspired by Monet's own garden in Giverny, offering a deeply personal glimpse into his artistic vision and his profound connection with nature. It's an opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a master.
Historical and cultural significance of Monet's Water Lilies
Monet's "Water Lilies" are more than just paintings within the Orangerie Museum; they are its very essence. After World War I, Monet envisioned these monumental works as a "refuge of peaceful contemplation," a gift to the French state. He meticulously designed the Orangerie's oval rooms himself, transforming a former greenhouse into a unique, immersive sanctuary specifically for his art. This pioneering approach to environmental art provided solace and pushed artistic boundaries. Today, the Orangerie's identity is completely tied to these water lilies, making it a singular destination dedicated to one iconic masterpiece.
Know before you visit
General information
Visitor tips
Timings
- Opening hours (for the rooms): 9am to 5:45pm, except on Tuesdays. -
- Closed on: May 1, morning of July 14, and December 25
Location
Address: Orangerie Museum, Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde (Seine side)
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Rules
- Visitors are generally expected to keep their voices down to maintain the tranquil atmosphere.
- Flash photography is not allowed as it can damage pigments over time.
- Selfie sticks are not allowed for safety and to prevent obstruction of views.
- Opt for a guided tour to gain insights into Monet's techniques and artistic vision.
- Stand at different distances to appreciate the scale and detail of the paintings.
- Photography is allowed; capture the paintings with natural light for the best effect.
- Early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer crowds.
- Spend at least 30 minutes exploring the Water Lilies rooms to fully appreciate the series.
Frequently asked questions about Water Lilies
Is Water Lilies included in the Orangerie Museum ticket?
Yes, it is included with a standard museum ticket.
Where are Water Lilies located in the museum?
They are displayed in specially designed rooms at the Orangerie Museum.
Can I take photos of Water Lilies?
Yes, photography is allowed.
Why are there no people in the Water Lilies paintings?
Monet intentionally left out people to create a sense of tranquility, timelessness, and immersion. The viewer becomes the presence in the landscape—surrounded, not observed.
Was Monet going blind while painting these?
Yes, and it adds a whole new layer of meaning. He developed cataracts, which altered his color perception. Some of the later Water Lilies works are darker, moodier, and blurrier—reflecting both his vision and emotions.
