The Library

Now here’s a room that deviates from the seventeenth century, for these bookcases are so evidently of the belle époque. Made for the rare books department at the municipal library in Nantes, they were removed thirty years ago when the building was remodeled, at which point Christie decided to give them a second life here at the Bâtiment.

Adjusted to the dimensions of their new home, they are complemented by the dark wainscoting running round the walls, while busts of philosophers perched at their summits bring all their gravity to this spectacular temple of learning. For both the library’s size and the central position it occupies in the house demonstrate Christie’s commitment to study and erudition. The countless volumes on the shelves include both new and historic works, some of which were acquired and others inherited, the Christie family collection having crossed the Atlantic to enrich the holdings. Leafing through the volumes gathered here, the visitor will discover Christie’s intimate and essential passions – music, gardens and the history of art and architecture.

Media gallery

Philippe Abergel