Paris on the Potomac March 6, 2008

The French influence on American culture is best realized in Washington D.C. during the 19th century and first half of the 20th century. From sculpture to architecture, interiors to lifestyle, pursuit of the French taste for monumental classicism and art de vivre had a long-lasting effect on the nation’s capital. In this panel discussion, Cynthia Field, Architectural Historian Emeritus, Smithsonian Institution, considers the influence of Paris on city planning in Washington. Isabelle Gournay, architectural historian and associate professor of architecture at the University of Maryland, will examine the context and issues involved in three distinct periods of French influence. Liana Paredes, senior curator of Western European Art at Hillwood Museum & Gardens, explores the French-inspired interiors of Washington’s elite. Richard Longstreth, Professor of American Civilization and director of the Graduate Program in Historic Preservation at George Washington University, will moderate the program. Following the lecture, the panelists will sign copies of the book Paris on the Potomac (Ohio University Press). This program is presented in conjunction with the exhibition Washington: Symbol and City, which will be open for viewing.
• 1.5 LU
$12 Members, Society of Architectural Historians, and U.S. Capitol Historical Society Members; $12 Students; $20 Public. Prepaid registration required. Walk-in registration based on availability.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Official Website: http://www.nbm.org/Events/Calendar/Lectures_Symposia.html