Recommended
Africa Fashion
- Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, Paris
31 Mar - 12 Jul 2026
From€14.00
Recommended
From
€14.00
The exhibition Plumes du Paradis at the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac is a masterfully curated exploration of the birds of paradise, creatures that have fascinated the Western imagination since the 16th century. Curated by Magali Mélandri and Stéphanie Xatart, the showcase moves beyond mere ornithology to examine the deep-seated cultural, scientific, and artistic impact of these "extraordinary birds." By bridging the gap between the lush forests of New Guinea and the refined ateliers of Europe, the exhibition highlights how these flamboyant avian specimens became symbols of the exotic, the divine, and the heights of luxury in the Northern School of painting and global fashion.
At the heart of the curatorial theme is the circulation of feathers and the diverse perspectives cast upon them across five centuries. The exhibition juxtaposes traditional New Guinean knowledge and indigenous art with Western scientific history, inviting visitors to witness a dialogue between ethnology, ecology, and philosophy. This multidisciplinary approach is grounded in the historical significance of the bird of paradise as an object of desire and a catalyst for trade, while simultaneously honoring the spiritual and ancestral roles these birds play within their native habitats.
The emotional resonance of the display lies in its poignant call to rethink our relationship with the living world. Through a vibrant scenography by Studio Vaste, the exhibition creates a sensory journey that shifts from the dazzling aesthetic of extraordinary plumage to a sober reflection on the ecological stakes of our era. By presenting contemporary perspectives from New Guinea alongside historical artifacts, the curation avoids a singular colonial narrative, instead fostering a space for collective introspection on how we represent, consume, and ultimately protect the natural wonders that captivate our collective consciousness.
Highlights
- Marvel at a rare collection of over 200 extraordinary works, including intricate feathered adornments and ceremonial headdresses from New Guinea.
- Explore the influence of these avian wonders on Western art through masterpieces from the Northern School of painting.
- Experience a sensory journey through the vibrant and immersive scenography designed by Studio Vaste.
- Observe a unique selection of naturalized specimens that demonstrate the diversity and flamboyant plumage of the birds of paradise.
- Discover contemporary artistic perspectives and indigenous knowledge shared by scientists and artists from New Guinea.
- Trace five centuries of history through a display of high-fashion accessories and garments inspired by the beauty of feathers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Plumes Du Paradis
Yes, access to temporary exhibitions at the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac is typically included with the purchase of a standard museum admission ticket.
Most visitors spend approximately 60 to 90 minutes exploring the 'Plumes du Paradis' galleries to fully appreciate the collection of over 200 works.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted without flash, though specific works may be subject to restrictions to protect delicate materials like feathers.
Yes, the exhibition is family-friendly and offers a visually stunning experience that appeals to children, though young visitors should be supervised near the delicate displays.
The museum regularly offers guided tours and thematic workshops; it is recommended to check the official schedule or visit the reception desk upon arrival.
Yes, the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac is fully accessible to people with disabilities, and elevators are available to reach the exhibition level.
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