9 Mar-12 June 2005.

The theme of this exhibition is the so-called Directoire period between Robespierre and Napoleon, an often overlooked or relatively unknown part of French history, during which elation, magnificence and merriment came to the for after the horrors of the revolution and before the great changes of the Empire. Thanks to a finely selected collection of art works, from furniture to paintings, the striking palace of the Muse du Carnavalet attempts to recreate the new lifestyle emerging from the Ancien Regime - a mixture of the old aristocracy, nouveaux riches and pioneers from throughout Frances society in transition. The exhibits retrace the steps of the Directoire period under the leadership of Barras and then Bonaparte as Consuls. Walk through and experience the recreated boutiques of the times revealing life as it emerged in an atmosphere of luxury and celebration.