Jeu de Paume is a photography and contemporary art centre at the northwestern edge of the Tuileries Garden, beside Place de la Concorde. Its exhibitions bring photography into conversation with video, film and other forms of visual art, with subjects ranging from the 19th century to the present. The 1861 building began as an indoor court for the game of jeu de paume and later played a role in the history of art looted during the Nazi occupation. Allow time for the galleries, then browse the specialist art and photography books.
A former tennis court in the Tuileries
The name Jeu de Paume refers to the game once played inside the building. Built in 1861 under Napoleon III, it formed part of the Tuileries Garden and was designed to balance the Orangerie at the garden’s opposite end. As outdoor tennis became more popular, the indoor court changed purpose. The building later became an art gallery.
In 1909, its rooms began serving as museum space. The site also housed Impressionist and post-Impressionist works before they moved to the Musée d’Orsay in 1986. Today, exhibitions focus on photography and other visual media.
Art and occupation
During the Nazi occupation of Paris in the Second World War, the building was used to store art seized from Jewish families and others. Works were held there before being sold or destroyed. The history connects the site to the looting of art in occupied France and gives the former sports hall a significance beyond its architecture.
The building’s role changed again after the war, but the wartime history remains an important part of understanding the place. It is a subject to approach with care: the works stored here had been taken from their owners, and some did not survive.
Photography, film and visual art
Jeu de Paume’s exhibition programme ranges across photography, video, film and contemporary art. Displays may bring together artists from different periods, with photography spanning the 19th century to the present. Past exhibitions have explored subjects including artificial intelligence and artistic creation, as well as work by photographers such as Martin Parr and Thomas Demand. The programme changes, so check what is showing before planning your visit.
Inside, the galleries occupy two floors and have a modern, pared-back design, with concrete surfaces and open exhibition spaces. The layout can suit large photography displays, though popular shows can feel crowded. If you want room to look closely, choose a quieter time when possible.
The centre also has a cinema space in the basement, alongside a library with books for exploring photography and related subjects. The bookshop focuses on photography, visual arts and cinema, including titles connected to current exhibitions. These spaces add ways to spend time with the images and ideas beyond the galleries themselves.
Perguntas frequentes
What can you see at Jeu de Paume?
The centre presents changing exhibitions in photography, film, video and contemporary art. The programme spans photography from the 19th century to the present.
How long should you spend at Jeu de Paume?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for the galleries. Add time if you plan to visit the library or bookshop.
Can you buy tickets at Jeu de Paume?
Tickets can be bought inside from staff or at a ticket machine. Booking ahead is also possible.
Where is Jeu de Paume?
It is at 1 Place de la Concorde, on the northwestern side of the Tuileries Garden in Paris.
