French estate taxes are hefty; Picasso lived most of his long, artistically productive life (92 years) in France and after his death, his heirs faced a terrifically high tax bill. In lieu of cash they didn’t have, they donated an equivalently hefty number of artworks and memorabilia to the French government in satisfaction of these levies after eleven years of trying to do so. This largest world collection of Picasso is a chronologically arranged presentation of not only art works but a life- a dual collection that has become one of the most popular museums in Paris.Fittingly located in the artsy, still slightly funky Marais, within the 17th-century Hotel Sale (Salt, as its first owner controlled distribution of that once precious substance), a building that required extensive renovation before the museum opened in 1985, this museum informs the visitor about the personal Picasso who seduced fellow artists’ wives, had multiple marital troubles of his own, and seems to have kept every scrap- of letters, bills, and photos of self - and many sketches and drawings. As probably the most well-known modern artist of the last century, everything he touched appeared to have monetary potential. Even his studies for various paintings such as that for "Les Demoiselles d" Avignon," which is exhibited here are now extremely valuable.
Wall plaques in each room as well as a plan available at reception provide information in English, a real aid to understanding exhibits and the various phases in his pursuit of art. The atmosphere is light and airy, which allows for excellent viewing of the art works. Preternaturally artistically gifted, Picasso was also an original in sculpting and pottery-making; like his compatriot Joan Miro, the older Picasso continued to paint but also worked in other media.