Figures of the fool
From the Middle Ages to the Romantics

The exhibition “Figures of the fool. From the Middle Ages to the Romantics” examines the emblematic figure of the medieval madman through its various representations.

Social and cultural history has extensively studied the fascinating figure of the fool, an integral element of medieval visual culture.

However, art history has paid less attention to this subject. It is worth noting that from the 13th to the mid-16th century, the concept of folly significantly influenced and stimulated artistic creation, both in the literary field and in the visual arts.

This ambitious and enlightening exhibition aims to examine the emblematic figure of the medieval fool through its various representations.

The chronologically and thematically organized journey will present more than 300 works of art, including sculptures, art objects (such as ivories, caskets, and small bronzes), medals, illuminations, drawings, engravings, panel paintings, and tapestries.

Although medieval art is often perceived as primarily religious, it was paradoxically during this period that the subversive figure of the fool took shape. Initially rooted in religious thought, this representation gradually developed in the secular sphere, becoming a central element of urban social life at the end of the medieval period.

Curators

• Elisabeth Antoine-König, Chief Curator at the Department of Decorative Arts
• Pierre-Yves Le Pogam, Chief Curator at the Department of Sculptures, Louvre Museum.