Are you sure you know all the museums in Paris? Even the most tucked-away ones? In central Paris, in the 3rd arrondissement, lies the Cognacq-Jay Museum. A charming museum that will exceptionally open its doors until 11 p.m. this Saturday, May 23, 2026, to mark the 22nd edition of the Nuit des Musées.
In this historic townhouse in the Marais, now a museum, visitors admire the collections of Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jay, passionate art lovers. The founder of the Samaritaine spent his life acquiring numerous European 18th-century works. Paintings, sculptures, precious objects, drawings, porcelains, and everyday items from the Enlightenment era—the Lumières era. Cognacq had a keen eye and a taste for exceptional art, which you can now enjoy at leisure in his museum. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Watteau, Fragonard, François Boucher, Canaletto, Houdon...
During this Nuit des Musées, we'll be strolling among these must-see works of art, and taking advantage of the unique events organized for this special night.
On the occasion of European Night of Museums, the Cognacq-Jay Museum presents a concert by a Korean string quartet led by Ji-Yoon Park, first violin of the Paris Philharmonic Orchestra, as part of the “Korea Focus” celebrating 140 years of diplomatic ties between Korea and France, organized by the Korean Cultural Center in partnership with Paris Musées.
Composed of three Korean women—Eun Joo Lee and Eun-Hee Joe on violin, and Yoori Lee on cello—along with French violist Jonathan Nazet, the ensemble brings together artists from the Paris Opera and Radio France.
In the intimate, refined atmosphere of the venue, the program opens with Joseph Haydn’s String Quartet Op. 1 No. 1. Its elegance and Baroque-inflected sensibility naturally resonate with the 18th‑century spirit the museum evokes.
The concert continues with Love Letters (2018) by Korean composer Jaehyuck Choi, a work that thoughtfully bridges Enlightenment Europe and contemporary Korea.
As the composer himself writes:
“In the 18th century, the letter transcended mere information transfer to become a vital medium for sharing intimate thoughts. Ideas and personal emotions pressed on paper crossed time and space. My Love Letters likewise reflects my own thoughts and feelings laid bare on the page. I hope this music can cross the space between us and touch you inwardly.”
Bringing together Haydn and Jaehyuck Choi, this concert forges a dialogue between France and Korea, the 18th century and the present, in a delicately crafted musical exchange.
Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM in the museum courtyard, free admission.
Estimated duration for each session: roughly 20 to 25 minutes.
Dates and Opening Time
On May 23, 2026
Location
Musée Cognacq-Jay
8, rue Elzévir
75003 Paris 3
Access
Metro line 1 "Saint-Paul" station
Prices
Free
Official website
www.museecognacqjay.paris.fr
