Animalia : an ancient and fantastical bestiary is on display at the Hôtel de la Marine, our photos

The Al Thani Collection unveils some of its animal-inspired treasures in a brand-new exhibition opening July 1, 2026, and running through January 10, 2027. Join us at the Hôtel de la Marine to discover the Animalia exhibition.

According to Aristotle, art imitates nature. Some artists draw inspiration even more specifically from the animal world. Horses, birds, lions, rabbits and other freshwater fish... Many furry or feathered creatures have become the muses of painters, sculptors, or ceramicists. Several animals have even come to symbolize power, wisdom, or love through these works of art!

The Hôtel de la Marine presents its artistic bestiary, a selection of works from the Al Thani collection inspired by the animal kingdom. The exhibition Animalia, on view from July 1, 2026 to January 10, 2027, spotlights animals in all their forms and across all eras.

The trajectory of this exhibition takes us from ancient Greece to modern times, from China to the Ivory Coast, via Russia and Western Europe. The exhibition offers a broad and varied view of animal art, with more than 120 sculptures, paintings and works of art gathered. The itinerary thus spans the centuries and the continents: we discover that animals have profoundly shaped human societies.

The exhibition explores this bestiary from several angles. Animals have likely been symbols of power, as spiritual beings connected to the gods, but also as pet companions, as useful livestock for survival, as prey to hunt or fish, or as dangerous beasts to be defeated in order to survive. A lion can be both an enemy and a symbol of kings! The route also highlights the scientific angle, the way these creatures were studied, observed by scholars and naturalists of earlier centuries.

From one civilization to another, we can spot shared motifs and beliefs passed down through these creatures. The exhibition closes with the imaginary bestiary, the legendary beings that people have fought or revered. Dragon, griffin, Hercules and his Nemean lion, the god Thoth in baboon form... Animals hold a special place in both the real world and the world of myths.

Real or imagined, animals are a major thread in the art world. Across eras and around the globe, these creatures—small and large—tell a thousand stories. Through these works, visitors can glimpse both the craftsmanship and the artistry of the creators, as well as the beliefs and codes of a society. Some pieces, dating back centuries, hide a long and fascinating history. The works converse with one another, pitting opposing cultures against one another, or surprisingly close ones.

The exhibition is intriguing, with many objects that conceal fascinating stories from a distant civilization. Not all items are deciphered, which is a bit disappointing. A guided tour could be more engaging for those who enjoy learning. Some pieces are also very small, making them hard to appreciate in a crowd. Moreover, for certain ancient items, the decorative motifs can be difficult to discern, even for keen eyesight. It’s best to visit during off-peak hours to take the time to truly admire the collections.

The Hôtel de la Marine unveils genuine artistic treasures with this exclusive exhibition, inviting visitors as it opens its doors for the summer 2026 season in Paris.

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