Gustave Doré (1832-1883). The reign of imagination
Gustave Doré played a key role in the visual culture of the 19th century. His work has influenced our popular imagination ever since, impacting on graphic novels and filmmaking. He is still seen as the greatest of illustrators. Many of his engravings of Perrault's Tales, Dante's Inferno, The Holy Bible, etc. remain ingrained in the collective memory of Europeans and even Americans and Russians.
Nautical maps
Portulan charts, illuminated nautical maps drawn on parchment, provide key insight into the Age of Discovery and Exploration. Produced between the 14th and 18th century, these maps embody Europe's understanding of the world over these 500 years. They illustrate the changing relationships between the Western world and other continents: Africa, India, America and Oceania.
Books of the Word, Torah, Bible, Koran
The exhibition is a chance for visitors to read or reread the founding texts from the three monotheistic religions through a presentation of some quite exceptional manuscripts. The major founding figures - Adam, Muhammad, Abraham, Moses, Mary, Jesus... - are discussed in a narrative and examined with regard to the three traditions and history.
Homer, in the footsteps of Ullysses
An invitation to explore the world of Homer following the travels of Ulysses and to browse the Iliad and the Odyssey, which were metaphorical stories all about human adventure and the melting pot for all the forms of our literature. The feature contains the references necessary for appreciating Greek culture, the sources and the legacy of the Homeric works.
The legend of King Arthur
A tour in the form of images of the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table through the exploration six themes: the legend; the wonders; the power and royalty; chivalry; the Grail and finally courtly love. There are digital facsimiles of the most beautiful manuscripts for listening to an account of the main episodes or for examining images and illuminated pages in minute detail.
Gustave Doré (1832-1883). The reign of imagination
Gustave Doré played a key role in the visual culture of the 19th century. His work has influenced our popular imagination ever since, impacting on graphic novels and filmmaking. He is still seen as the greatest of illustrators. Many of his engravings of Perrault's Tales, Dante's Inferno, The Holy Bible, etc. remain ingrained in the collective memory of Europeans and even Americans and Russians.