In 1810, while refurnishing the Grand Trianon, Napoleon decided to put together a collection of miniature warship models – the “Trianon Collection”. This exceptional set of models bears witness to the Emperor's desire to bring back the Imperial Navy and the excellence of French shipbuilding.
For the first time since 1828, this collection of sixteen models, masterpieces by the shipbuilders at the arsenals, have left the French National Navy Museum to return to the site for which they were originally ordered – the Cotelle Gallery at the Grand Trianon.
Maps, archives, portraits of sailors, naval combat scenes and navy objects (megaphones, swords, rifles, etc.) enable visitors to imagine how each ship worked and showcase the history of the Imperial Navy.
The exhibition is open every day except Monday from 12 am to 6.30 pm.
More details available on the Chateau site.
Langue(s) : French