Maison Pfister: Colmar's Renaissance Jewel
Maison Pfister, located at 11 Rue des Marchands, is an iconic architectural landmark in Colmar. Constructed in 1537, it is celebrated as the city's first example of Renaissance architecture. With its distinctive corner oriel window, octagonal turret, and painted facades, the house stands as a testament to the wealth and artistic transition of the 16th century.
A Renaissance Masterpiece
Commissioned by Ludwig Scherer, a prosperous hatter from Besançon, Maison Pfister replaced a previous structure on the site. The building is a remarkable blend of architectural styles, incorporating medieval timber-framing with new Renaissance elements. Its most striking features include a two-story corner oriel, a wooden gallery, and an octagonal turret. The year of construction, 1537, is inscribed on a window of the turret, while an inscription on the oriel acknowledges the original builder.
The Story Behind the Frescoes and the Name
Around 1577, the facade was adorned with intricate murals attributed to the artist Christian Vacksterffer. These paintings depict a range of subjects, including 16th-century Germanic emperors, biblical narratives from the book of Genesis, the four Evangelists, and Western Church Fathers.
Interestingly, the house's name does not come from its original owner. It was named for François Jean Pfister, a merchant who acquired the property in 1841. The Pfister family owned the house for only about 50 years, until 1892, nearly three centuries after its construction.
Preservation and Cultural Significance
As a symbol of the humanistic ideals of Colmar's burgeoning merchant class, Maison Pfister holds significant historical importance. It was officially classified as a historical monument on March 14, 1927. The building has undergone several restorations to preserve its unique character, including one in 1909 by the Judlin family who took ownership in 1892, and another on its facade and roof in 2012.
Maison Pfister Today
Today, Maison Pfister is a prominent tourist attraction and a key piece of Colmar's well-preserved architectural heritage. While the interior is not open to the public, its magnificent facade can be admired from the street. The house is also widely believed to have been an inspiration for a building in the animated film 'Howl's Moving Castle' by Hayao Miyazaki.
FAQ
Who built Maison Pfister?
Maison Pfister was built in 1537 for its original owner, Ludwig Scherer, a wealthy hatter and money trader from Besançon.
Can you go inside Maison Pfister?
No, the interior of Maison Pfister is not open for public visits. It is a historical landmark whose exterior can be viewed from the street.
Why is it called Maison Pfister?
The house is named after the Pfister family, who acquired the property in 1841. They owned it for approximately 50 years, until 1892, nearly three centuries after it was originally constructed.
What is special about Maison Pfister's architecture?
Maison Pfister is considered the first example of Renaissance architecture in Colmar. It uniquely blends Renaissance features with medieval elements like timber-framing and includes an ornate two-story oriel, a wooden gallery, an octagonal turret, and elaborate murals.
