The Museum of Hunting and Nature (Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature) is an unparalleled museum in Paris, offering a fascinating blend of art, history, and nature. Since its opening in 1967, the museum has provided visitors with a unique look at humanity’s relationship with animals, viewed through the lens of hunting traditions and artistic interpretations.
The museum occupies two historic mansions, the Hôtel de Guénégaud and the Hôtel de Mongelas, recently renovated to offer expanded exhibits and a more immersive experience.
A Journey Through History and Nature
The museum’s inauguration by André Malraux in 1967 was a milestone in the cultural scene of Paris. Located in the Hôtel de Guénégaud, a 17th-century historic monument designed by François Mansart, the museum later expanded into the adjacent Hôtel de Mongelas in 2007. This extension allowed for a deeper exploration of humanity’s relationship with animals, spanning from Antiquity to the present day.
The museum’s founders, François and Jacqueline Sommer, envisioned a space that would combine their passion for hunting with their love for art, and their vision continues to resonate through the museum’s exhibitions today.
Permanent Collections: Where Nature Meets Art
The museum’s permanent collections are as diverse as they are captivating. Visitors can admire works of art ranging from paintings and sculptures to photographs and installations, all tied together by the theme of nature. The collections are arranged with an eye for detail, pairing artworks with naturalized animals and other artifacts to create an immersive experience.
Among the highlights are ancient hunting weapons, European and African animal trophies, and masterpieces by renowned artists such as Pierre Paul Rubens, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Jean-Baptiste Oudry. The combination of art and nature fosters a reflective dialogue about the complex relationship between humans and animals throughout history.
A Contemporary Twist: Temporary Exhibitions
The museum is not just a repository of historical objects; it is also a vibrant space for contemporary art. With temporary exhibitions held two to three times a year, the Museum of Hunting and Nature brings in modern artists to reinterpret the museum’s themes.
These exhibitions offer a fresh perspective on the permanent collections, often challenging visitors to rethink the role of animals and nature in the modern world. Artists such as Jan Fabre and Mark Dion have displayed their work here, ensuring that the museum remains a dynamic, ever-evolving institution.
Engaging Cultural Programming
Beyond its exhibits, the museum offers an array of cultural programming designed to engage visitors of all ages. Guided tours, workshops, conferences, and even Wednesday evening events are part of the museum’s offerings.
Whether you’re attending a lecture on the ethics of hunting or participating in an interactive family workshop, the museum’s programming creates a space for learning and dialogue about nature, art, and human culture.
A New Era for the Museum
After a two-year renovation, the Museum of Hunting and Nature reopened in 2021 with an additional floor and six new exhibition rooms. The expansion adds 250 square meters to the museum, allowing for a more comfortable and immersive visitor experience.
The new space explores the relationship between humans and the living world through both contemporary art and heritage collections, providing visitors with fresh insights into the natural world.