For Aristotle, art imitates nature. Some artists draw especially on the animal world for inspiration. Many creatures with fur or feathers have become muses for painters, sculptors, or ceramists. 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 journey 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, varied view of animal art, with more than 120 sculptures, paintings and works of art gathered together.
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 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.
Dates and Opening Time
From July 1, 2026 to January 10, 2027
Location
Hôtel de la Marine
2 Place de la Concorde
75008 Paris 8
Access
M° Concorde (lines 1, 8 and 12)
Prices
Moins de 26 ans: Free
Plein tarif: €13
Official website
www.hotel-de-la-marine.paris
