Interior view of the Chapelle du Rosaire © Succession H. Matisse | Photo © François Fernandez
Dear Members and Friends,
Please join us for a guided visit in English of La Chapelle du Rosaire – The Matisse Chapel, Vence.
“This work required four years of an exclusive and all-consuming effort and it is the fruit of my whole working life. In spite of all its imperfections, I consider it as my masterpiece.” - Henri Matisse
La Chapelle du Rosaire in Vence, often referred to as The Matisse Chapel, is considered by many as the crowning achievement of Matisse’s career. He began working on the project in early 1949, the first stone was laid in December 1949 and the Chapel was officially inaugurated on June 25th, 1951.
Background
In 1941, Matisse, who was 71 years old and living in Nice, developed cancer and underwent surgery. He placed an advertisement in the local paper seeking "a young and pretty nurse". Monique Bourgeois, responded and she helped nurse him back to health. She also agreed to pose as a model for him. They became great friends, but Matisse’s regular nurse returned and life took them in different directions.
Bourgeois contracted tuberculosis and went to a convalescent home run by Dominican nuns in Vence. She decided to enter the convent, take her vows and taking the name Sister Jacques-Marie.
In 1943, fate brought the two together again. Matisse, who refused to leave France despite the war, moved to Vence to escape the threat of coastal bombing, They rekindled their friendship and she asked Matisse to take on the project of the chapel.
During our guided visit, we will learn more about their story as well as how every detail of the Chapel was conceived and designed by Henri Matisse. Not only the stained glass windows and the three large ceramic murals of the chapel’s interior, but also the exterior spire, the wavy blue and white pattern on the roof, the bronze crucifix and candlesticks on the altar, the tabernacle, the wooden confessional door, and the priest’s vestements (chasubles), as well as the pond in the garden outside. All were meticulously executed in accordance with Matisse’s plans and drawings.
Although the stark white exteriors and minimalist interior have been subject to criticism by those surprised by its apparent simplicity, the Matisse Chapel is now considered as one of the great religious sanctuaries of the 20th century and a masterpiece of modern art.
There is a small gift shop that donates all its profits to the Dominican convent. If you wish to make a purchase, please be aware that credit cards are not accepted (cash only).
Please note that interior photos are prohibited.
Location: 466 Avenue Henri Matisse, 06140 Vence
http://chapellematisse.com https://vence-tourisme.com/chapelle-du-rosaire-dite-matisse
Lunch at La Regence. Offering French and Mediterranean specialties, prepared primarily with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, the restaurant favors sustainable agriculture and organic products provided by local artisans from Vence and neighboring villages.
*** La Regence Menu ***
Aperitif – Prosecco
Amuse Bouche
Main course - Choice of :
Piéce du Boucher et son Gratin Dauphinois(Grilled Steak, served with gratin potatoes)
OR
Raviolis ricotta épinard, sauce napolitaine maison, copeaux de parmesan
(Spinach ricotta ravoli, homemade neapolitan sauce and parmesan shavings)
***
Choice of
Assortiments de Fromages, son chutney maison
(Assorted Cheese Plate, homemade chutney)
OR
PâtisserieDessert
Includes welcome aperitif, 2-course lunch with 2 glasses red or white wine per person, still and sparkling waters, and coffee or tea.
Please indicate your preferred Main course choice (Meat or Pasta) on your registration
La Regence
10 Pl. du Grand Jardin, 06140 Vence
Telephone : 04 93 24 02 10
Parking:
Very limited on-street parking at the venue.
Parking available in Vence, please allow for 10-15 minute, slightly uphill walk to the venue.
A Parking du Grand Jardin (underground parking garage)
28 Rue du 8 Mai 1945, 06140 Vence
B Parking Marie-Antoinette (outdoor car park)
2 Avenue Marie Antoinette, 06140 Vence
C Parking Marc Chagall (very limited parking, difficult access due to construction)
Place Marc Chagall 06140 Vence
Kindly confirm your RSVP as soon as possible, but no later than Friday, February 16, 2024.
Payment in advance only – no payment will be accepted at the door.
Important: *If you wish to pay by wire transfer we need to receive your payment within 7 days of registering or your reservation will be automatically cancelled. Payment via wire transfer must reach us no later than the 16th of February. If you have any delays please send us proof of the wire transfer to maintain your reservation via email treasurer@americanclubriviera.com
Any cancellations after February 16th cannot be refunded. In the event that you need to cancel your event registration please contact us.
Please note that there is no reserved seating for this event.
