Atelier-musée des Cartons De Tapisserie
About This Museum
Tucked away on the quiet Rue de l'Abreuvoir in Aubusson, a town practically woven into the history of French tapestry, this museum feels more like a living workshop than a static gallery. It’s a place that pulls back the curtain on the entire creative process, focusing not on the final, glorious wall hangings but on their essential blueprints. You'll find yourself surrounded by an army of 'cartons', the full-scale preparatory drawings and paintings that weavers have used for centuries as their guides. It’s a quiet, almost meditative space that reveals the true soul of Aubusson's legendary craft.
Collection Highlights
The main draw is undoubtedly the vast collection of these fragile paper and canvas cartons, some dating back to the 17th century, displayed alongside spools of vibrant wool and the very tools used to translate these drawings into textile masterpieces. Look for detailed scenes from mythology and history, where you can see every painterly brushstroke and annotation meant for the weaver's eye.
Visitor Information
It's located right in the heart of Aubusson's historic tapestry district, so it's easy to pair a visit here with other local workshops. Given its niche focus, it's a perfect stop for those who want to go beyond the surface and understand the 'how' behind the famous tapestries.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a charming, unassuming stone building that feels entirely native to its cobblestoned surroundings, its architecture is humble and workmanlike—a fitting vessel for an art form born from skilled labor rather than grand spectacle.
Contact & Location
Address: Rue de l'Abreuvoir, Les Granges, Aubusson, Creuse, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France métropolitaine, 23200, France
Phone: +33 6 88 25 35 07
Website: Visit Website
