MASTERPIECES BIG & SMALL

SHOPPING SPECIFICS
Leave it to Paris to come up with the idea of shops and eateries that focus on one item exclusively. “Mono-mania” isn’t just for Parisians – visitors are falling in love with this unique concept that makes shopping truly special. A few exclusive places for that single-minded traveler:

• L’Ours du Marais. Teddy Bear lovers and collectors will delight in this little shop that showcases an amazing assortment of bears (ours, pronounced oorse). French and international designers have created the creatures in all shapes and sizes, and from materials such as mohair and alpaca. 18 Rue Pavée, Paris 4th, close to the Place des Voges.

• Maison Fabre. Making gloves is a fine art in France and shoppers here will find tradition with a perfect fit. Secret dye methods, superb craftsmanship and beautiful French skins come in 180 models for men, women, and children. Gloves can also be made to exact measure. 128-129 Galerie de Valois, Paris 1st, beneath the arcades and gardens of the Palais-Royal

• Le Soufflé. A trendsetter and classic at the same time, this beloved spot has been serving both savory and sweet soufflés from foie gras to fraises (strawberries) for 40 years. 36 Rue du Mont-Thabor, Paris 1st, between the Place Vendôme and the Place de la Concorde

• Le Paradis du Fruitis (Fruit Paradise). Eminent designer Philippe Starck created an exotic shop for fruit flavor lovers. The décor alone is worth a look and the fruity menu provides a refreshing pause in the prestigious district of the Champs Élysées. 47 Avenue George-V, Paris 8
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RIVALRY AT THE LOUVRE
Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese: Rivals in Renaissance Venice
Louvre Museum. Through January 4, 2010

Fresh from its showing at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, which co-curated the exhibit, this fantastic display shows the similarities and fierce competition between three painting giants whose collective careers filled the entire 16th century. There are 57 works, many of them larger than life. The artists’ paintings are placed side by side according to the subject, making the similarities among them quite striking.