Abroad in Paris. Putting the è in Agnès.
Ah. I also my first of many future trips to the Louvre on Sunday.
Though it took me about an hour before I could actually see any art, and I had to plan my route very carefully, I think my first foray into this world of art was quite a good one.
Thanks to my “Art History” student ID, I was able to apply for a free Louvre-approved Art student ID. Though finding the office where this application was to be made was a bit tricky- all it really took was a few forms and a quick snapshot for my get-into-the-Louvre-free card (good for a year).
I managed to make my way into the Sully wing where I walked quickly through the History of the Louvre section and into the Medieval Louvre underground excavation. From there I made my way into the Greco-roman sculpture room, which I found quite impressive. The lighting and decor of the place was really quite grand — I think it really made the sculptures come alive.

Exiting this section of Sully I somewhat inadvertently found myself in the room with the Venus de Milo. I hadn’t really planned on seeing any of the big works of art that day, so this was a nice surprise. Of course it was pretty funny just how much attention she was getting, as it was difficult to even get a camera above your head with all of the point-and-clicks in the air.
Also, quite naturally, since I grew up on the Simpsons I was bummed by the lack of gummi candy in the immediate area. Mmm. I mean, the gift shop could have stocked something apart from Mona Lisa memorabilia …
Finally I rounded out the night with a romp through the Egyptian floor (it sort of put the Oriental Institute to shame) and made my way up to the top floor where I found the paintings of some French masters! Though the layout was a bit confusing, I think ending my night at the top of the Louvre was worth it, both with regards to the art and the view of the courtyard below!
You can try to reach me via
skype, but an e-mail would be just as nice. For the really ambitious, I also have an mailing address at my dormitory:
Agnes Mazur
Cité Universitaire
Maison des Provinces de France
55 Boulevard Jordan #259
75014 Paris
FRANCE