Librairie-Boutique du Musee du Louvre (Louvre gift shop), Paris

Evidently designed as a museum shop, this establishment nevertheless possesses an exceptional quality. The sheer breadth of its book selection alone, spanning a comprehensive array of creative disciplines, is quite amazing. Moreover, an expansive area is dedicated to reproductions of the most iconic pieces in the Louvre museum, rendered in varying scales, from the Venus de Milo to the Victory of Samothrace, not forgetting, of course, the ever-enigmatic Mona Lisa. One can even peruse reproductions of antique Egyptian jewelry, a veritable feast for the eyes. Prices cater to all manner of budgets, though it is worth noting that prints and reproductions, whilst of exceptional quality, can be rather expensive.

The cordial and knowledgeable staff are ever-willing to extend their expertise, passionate about what they have to offer. One gains entry much as one would to the museum, but without the requisite admission fee, simply directing oneself towards the exit or, rather, the inverted pyramid. A visit to the front area of the upper level is not to be missed, for here one may behold a captivating display of sculptures.