Hôtel de Lassay, a magnificent mansion in the heart of Paris, holds a fascinating history woven with aristocracy, politics, and artistic endeavors. It stands proudly on Rue de l’Université, in the 7th arrondissement, and shares a wall with the Palais Bourbon, home to the French National Assembly.
A Noble Beginning: From Marquis to Prince
The story of Hôtel de Lassay begins with Léon de Madaillan de Lesparre, the Marquis de Lassay. In 1722, he commissioned the construction of a grand mansion, entrusting the project to Italian architect Giardini. Tragedy struck when Giardini passed away that same year, leading to a series of architects taking over the project, including Pierre Cailleteau, Jean Aubert, and Jacques V Gabriel.
It is believed that Jean Aubert played a key role in the design of Hôtel de Lassay, as well as the neighboring Palais Bourbon and the Hôtel Biron (now the Musée Rodin). Construction stretched from 1726 to 1730, resulting in a beautiful building reflecting Italian architectural influences – a single story topped with a flat roof, situated between Rue de l’Université and the Seine River.
Following Lassay’s death in 1750, ownership of the mansion passed through generations. Eventually, it landed in the hands of Louis-Joseph de Bourbon, Prince de Condé, in 1768. He wished to establish himself in this luxurious residence after making significant renovations to the Palais Bourbon for his son and daughter-in-law.
Art and Opulence: A Prince’s Residence
Prince de Condé transformed Hôtel de Lassay into a testament to refined taste and opulent living. He enlisted the services of architect Le Carpentier, later joined by Claude Billard de Bélisard, who continued the work after Le Carpentier’s death in 1773.
The mansion’s entrance hall received a touch of modern elegance thanks to Le Carpentier’s skillful renovations of the existing décor. A new wing, shaped like a U, was added to accommodate the Prince’s private quarters, adorned with exquisite luxury.
These private apartments, where the Prince resided with his mistress, Catherine de Brignole, Princess of Monaco, were the subject of admiration and description by famous writers of the time, including Dezallier d’Argenville, Thiéry, and the Baroness d’Oberkirch. The Baroness’s account of the mansion’s grandeur and her unique descriptions of its various parts leave us with a vivid picture of life within those walls.
Architectural Wonders and Artistic Treasures
Hôtel de Lassay boasts architectural marvels that were considered the pinnacle of design during the 18th century. The circular salon is a particularly striking example, its beauty magnified by a clever design allowing for transformative experiences.
A retractable ceiling, controlled by a mechanism, could be raised to reveal a skylight, while mirrors rising from the floor concealed the windows. An orchestra was hidden behind a circular railing at the top of the room, creating a hidden source of music. The dome itself, painted by Callet, depicted the story of Venus, adding another layer of artistic splendor to the already breathtaking design.
The mansion’s library housed precious books alongside busts, vases, and antique bronzes, all carefully arranged. The prince’s collection of paintings graced the walls above.
A Changing Residence: From Monarchy to Republic
The turbulent years of the French Revolution brought significant changes to Hôtel de Lassay. In 1792, it was confiscated as national property. From 1794 to 1804, it housed the newly established École Polytechnique.
Following the restoration of the monarchy, Hôtel de Lassay returned to the House of Condé in 1815. However, with the family’s extinction in 1830, its heir, the Duke d’Aumale, leased and later sold the mansion to the French government in 1843. The government’s intention was to transform it into a residence for the President of the Chamber of Deputies.
This marked a significant shift in the mansion’s purpose, signaling the transition from a symbol of aristocracy to a space serving the republic.
A Residence for the President of the National Assembly
The mansion’s transformation was further amplified by the addition of an extra story and a connecting gallery linking it to the Palais Bourbon.
In 1854, the Duke of Morny, appointed President of the Legislative Body, took up residence in Hôtel de Lassay. This period witnessed a particularly vibrant social scene, culminating in a grand celebration attended by Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.
Following the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), the French government relocated to Versailles, leaving Hôtel de Lassay empty for nearly a decade. However, it regained its prominence in 1879, becoming the official residence of the President of the Chamber of Deputies.
A Legacy of History and Power
Today, the grand salons of Hôtel de Lassay welcome dignitaries and delegations invited by the National Assembly.
The mansion’s most significant room is the office of the President of the National Assembly, often referred to as the “departure salon” or “cabinet.” It bears witness to the history of French politics, as it is the place where the President starts their day, following a precise ritual dating back to the French Revolution.
It is also the room where Napoleon signed his act of abdication in 1814, a historical marker forever etched in this grand residence.
Hôtel de Lassay has witnessed and shaped the course of French history, from its noble beginnings to its role as the official residence of the President of the National Assembly. The mansion remains a living monument, steeped in history and elegance, a captivating testament to the shifting power dynamics of France.
