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In the heart of the world capital of the arts of fire, The Adrien Dubouché National Museum offers a fluid and educational journey to discover ceramics. Named after a patron, the museum presents the richest public collection of Limoges porcelain, in an architectural setting that enhances the objects.
First of all, a little history
Founded in 1845 by Tiburce Morisot, prefect of Haute-Vienne, the first museum of Limoges was initially installed in the premises of the prefecture, place du Présidial. Its mission was to bring together an encyclopedic collection, composed of paintings, sculptures and art objects, gathered by the members of the Archaeological and Historical Society of Limousin.
En 1865, Adrien Dubouche, a passionate and patron, took over the management of the museum that eventually bore his name. He considerably enriched the collections, and the institution adopted a fluid museum route, sublimated by a innovative architecture. Each room reveals a fascinating universe at the heart of theceramic art. The contemporary facade in glass and porcelain, a true symbol, embodies the living heritage of this emblematic material.
3 stars in the Michelin Travel & Culture Guide
This temple of porcelain, which has once again obtained 3 stars in the Michelin Travel & Culture Guide, is a jewel of Limoges entirely devoted to the art of ceramics. After a spectacular renovation in 2012, this museum harmoniously combines its historical heritage with modern and bright spaces. It offers a journey through many porcelain collections exceptional, a symbol of the city for a long time. A visit to this museum is ideal for exploring the'universal history of ceramics' through rare and prestigious works.
The visit route
During their visit, visitors will first discover the different stages of porcelain manufacturing then the great moments of thehistory of ceramics, from Antiquity to the contemporary era. The museum houses the largest public collection of Limoges porcelain in the world, a true pearl among the 18 objects preserved.
History and manufacturing techniques
The visit begins with the mezzanine Techniques, offering an immersive space dedicated to know-how and the history of ceramics. Located in the contemporary extension of the museum designed by Boris Podrecca, this educational gallery traces the entire porcelain manufacturing process, from the extraction of the kaolin from the quarries of Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche to advanced production techniques. machines, tools et models from Limousin factories, witnesses to the rich industrial heritage of the region are exhibited. Each stage of the trade, from turning to firing, is illustrated, highlighting the virtuosity of the craftsmen from Limoges, whose fame is worldwide.
Ceramics in industry
A section is then devoted to the technical ceramics, used in various sectors such as medicine and aeronautics thanks to collaborations with cutting-edge companies. This journey allows visitors to delve into the heart of ceramic innovation and expertise, while revealing the beauty and expertise that characterize Limoges porcelain.
The historical gallery, from Antiquity to the 18th century
The tour continues in the large rooms of the historical museum. The original display cases, designed by the architect Henri Mayeux and classified as Historic Monuments, tell the story of ceramics from Antiquity to the 18th century. The first room presents the history of the museum, from its creation to its latest acquisitions. Initially focused on local archaeology, the museum later expanded its collections with objects from all over the worldChinese porcelain occupies a central place in the museum's historical gallery, due to its influence on European productions. Part of the gallery pays tribute to major donors to the museum, like Albert Jacquemart and Paul Gasnault, by exhibiting remarkable pieces, notably around the sculpture by Adrien Dubouché.
From the 19th century to today
Adrien Dubouché has enriched the museum with an important collection of 19th century ceramics, exhibited in the former rooms of the School of Decorative ArtsThe immersive and colorful route traces the major aesthetic trends of the time, in connection with the Universal Exhibitions, until the works of the end of the Nineteenth century and the Art NouveauStoneware occupies a prominent place here. From the end of the 3th century, artists such as Delaherche, Chaplet, and Carriès, influenced by the Orient, revived this material. The museum now houses a remarkable collection of these “independent” ceramicists. In the last room, you can observe contemporary creations, for example, a collection of XNUMXD-printed works.
Limoges porcelain
The two people rooms dedicated à la Porcelain de limoges, installed au premier floor du museum historical, are Mon opportunities, moments - de la visit. Restored in their forms original et bathed de light natural 22 display cases conch-shaped white welcome a collection unique here recounts the story de la Porcelain à limoges, du Eighteenth century up to today. La the first Gym retrace The infancy de this adventure : la creation de la the first manufacture en 1771 The personalities notable, The progress “technical” detectors. et The coins emblematic presented then opportunities, Exhibitions universal.
La second Gym explores The styles et The use du twentieth century à our days, opportunities, creations Art new et Art Deco à la Porcelain contemporary, en passing by The great Management for opportunities, families royal et opportunities, chefs of State. The showcases, designed as opportunities, cases bright, put en valeur la finesse et la diversity made up of people from different backgrounds de ces objects. Le museum working closely with The manufactures local, here he offer regularly appear opportunities, coins recent. La visit se dates in a Gym magic dedicated French lithophanes, where la light does appear toute la delicacy de la porcelain.
The Porcelain Makers' Tables
In partnership with volunteers from the Association of Friends of the Adrien Dubouché National Museum, the museum is dedicating a space for contemporary creations in Limoges porcelain. Every three months, an artist, a manufacturer or a publisher exhibits their new pieces there on theare two large central tables of the gallery. Their works can be discovered all year round on the floor dedicated to Limoges porcelain.
1 free entry to the Adrien Dubouché National Museum with the Limoges Malin Pass!
Want to discover the Adrien Dubouché National Museum in a different way?
On a guided tour
The Adrien Dubouché National Museum offers several types of visits suitable for all audiences. In addition to the self-guided tour, it is possible to discover the museum through guided tours led by tour guides. His varied programming and rich appeals to a wide audience, with options ranging from traditional visits, which explore the history and world of ceramics, at experiences fun et original. There is something for every taste !
So what are we waiting for to discover porcelain in a different way?
In the workshop
In addition to visiting this museum and admiring the breadth of know-how that is synonymous with excellence in porcelain, it is also possible (and recommended, if you have the opportunity) to get your hands dirty through a porcelain workshop. That you are alone or with family, trying out this precious Limoges art can turn out to be both a friendly and fun activity.
Exceptional exhibitions showcase the white gold of Limousin
Catherine Bernis, world(s) of paper and porcelain – until June 2
Born in Limoges and working between Paris and Limousin, Catherine Bernis shapes works where paper and porcelain dialogue with delicacy. Trained in restoration and drawing, she masters each material with precision. Her landscapes evoke distant shores, while his sculptures, similar to meteorites, invite us to escape. Between poetry and tactile exploration, his work reveals sensitive worlds, both fragile and powerful.
Practical information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the museum accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The museum is accessible to Handicapped. Lockers are provided free of charge for anyone with an entry ticket.
Can we visit the museum with our luggage?
For security reasons, visitors must be there drop off their luggage, backpacks, large umbrellas… Wheelchairs and folding seats are available at the museum reception.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is open every day, except Tuesday, from 10am to 12:30pm and from 14pm to 17:45pm. Exceptional closures on December 25 and January 1.
What are the museum entrance fees?
Full price : € 7
Group rate: € 5
Reduced price : € 5
The museum is free for under-26s, active teachers, group leaders, job seekers and RSA beneficiaries. Also enjoy free entry every first Sunday of the month and with the purchase of a Limoges Smart Pass.
