What is M.S. Rau known for?

M.S. Rau is a leading dealer and gallery specializing in 18th- and 19th-century antiques, fine art, and estate jewelry. It is described as a French Quarter landmark that houses museum-like items, including rare objects, automata, and paintings by artists such as Monet and Renoir.

What are the hours for the New Orleans gallery?

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00am to 5:15pm and is closed on Sundays.

Yes, admission to the gallery is always free.

Where is M.S. Rau located?

It is located in New Orleans's French Quarter at 622 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130.

How long has the business been operating?

Founded in 1912, M.S. Rau is a third-generation, family-owned business that has operated for over 100 years.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

M.S. Rau in New Orleans

M.S. Rau

A legendary French Quarter landmark founded in 1912, M.S. Rau is a world-renowned gallery specializing in 18th- and 19th-century antiques, fine art, and rare estate jewelry.

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What to know

M.S. Rau is a prestigious art and antiques gallery located at 622 Royal Street in the heart of New Orleans' historic French Quarter. Founded in 1912 by M.S. Rau himself, this third-generation, family-owned business has operated for over a century, establishing itself as one of North America’s most respected destinations for fine art and antiquities. The gallery functions almost like a museum, housing an extraordinary collection of 18th- and 19th-century antiques. Visitors can discover highly detailed clocks, automaton animals, and cabinets containing autoplaying musical instruments. The inventory also includes rare objects such as an Enigma encryption machine and erotic boxes, blending high art with historical curiosity. Art enthusiasts will find works by legendary masters, including paintings by Monet, Renoir, and Norman Rockwell, as well as an etching by Rembrandt. Beyond canvas and paper, the gallery showcases exquisite estate jewelry and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, all available for purchase for those with a significant budget. While deeply rooted in the French Quarter, the business continues to grow. In January 2026, M.S. Rau expanded its reach by opening a permanent gallery in Aspen to showcase its curated selection of fine art and jewelry to a new audience.

Visitor tips

Visit Monday through Saturday between 9:00am and 5:15pm; the gallery is closed on Sundays.
Admission is free, making it a great way to see world-class art without a ticket.
Allow extra time to explore the smaller, rare objects and automata that are tucked away in the gallery.

Nearby context

Located on Royal Street, M.S. Rau is a cornerstone of the French Quarter's famous antique district, where historic architecture meets high-end art galleries.

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