Private Art Collection Put on Display in Paris

Masterpieces from artists such as Degas and Giacometti, all given by a mystery donor, went on display last week at the Musee d’Orsay in Paris, where they will remain through Nov. 19.

The collection of 109 paintings, drawings, pastels and sculptures is the biggest single art donation in France in the last 100 years. The Direction des Musees de France, which runs the network of state-owned museums, has promised to keep the donor’s identity secret.

The most precious work is a self-portrait by Cezanne. Other artists represented include Picasso, Matisse, Monet and Leger. After Nov. 19, the artworks will be returned to the anonymous collector, then distributed after the donor’s death to the Orsay and other museums.