Exhibition 1913-1923: The Spirit of the Era — A Cultural Encounter at the Quai Branly Museum

The Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Museum takes us back to the early 20th century, a period when Paris was first embracing African and Oceanic art. The exhibition 1913-1923: The Spirit of the Age explores how these non-European arts were viewed at the time, traces their growing influence within the French art scene, and highlights the key figures who helped bring these cultural treasures to European audiences.

The exhibition runs from March 17 to September 20, 2026. It showcases a diverse collection of photographs, archival documents, sculptures, along with various objects and avant-garde works. These pieces foster a dialogue between African and Oceanian artists and their French counterparts. This cross-cultural exchange has sparked a fresh perspective on modern art. At the time, artists drew inspiration from these unusual and entirely unexpected art objects, which challenged traditional notions and opened new creative horizons.

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Initially, the objects and artworks exhibited in France are regarded as scientific curiosities or ethnographic collectibles. Gradually, however, these creations are recognized as genuine works of art, earning their place on the European artistic stage.

Prominent figures of the 20th century took an interest in this new art movement: the exhibition highlights the contributions of art dealers Paul Guillaume, Joseph Brummer, and Charles Vignier, as well as artists like Guillaume Apollinaire, Picasso, Matisse, Vlaminck, and Derain. These pioneers helped elevate African and Oceanic arts onto the global stage and embed them within the broader artistic landscape.

The Quai Branly Museum challenges our perceptions of art and foreign cultures, shedding light on an intriguing chapter of history. This exhibition also revitalizes the artistic spirit of the Montparnasse neighborhood in Paris during the early 20th century.