ANNE DE BEAUJEU MUSEUM
Museum featuring original medieval sculptures, beautiful terracotta statues, paintings and display cases.
Since 1986, the museum has been housed in one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture and decor built in France between 1497 and 1503. All that remains of the original building is the façade, featuring a thistle, belt and kite, emblems of the Bourbon family. The museum houses original medieval sculptures from the court of the Dukes of Bourbon, as well as beautiful terracotta statues, very fashionable in the 16thcentury , created by prestigious artists who frequented the Dukes' court. The museum also boasts an exceptional collection of paintings, including the benchmark collection by Cérilly-born painter Marcellin Desboutin (1823-1902). In 2020, the museum acquired a rare drawing by the artist depicting the famous Edgar Degas, of whom Desboutin was a close friend. Also on display are works by Georges-Antoine Rochegrosse (1859-1938), son-in-law of the poet Théodore de Banville (1823-1891), whose sculpted mask is also represented with Le Bal des Ardents. Several showcases are devoted to Moulins earthenware, whose collection has been considerably enriched in recent years, with the acquisition of 3 plates and 2 bannette baskets made by Moulins earthenware makers around 1760-1770. A special area is dedicated to the decorative arts of the Moulin region, as well as to French academic art from 1850 to 1900. In 2023, the museum opened a new permanent room devoted to regional archaeology. The room on the first floor is the2nd in order of visit. It features some 400 objects and sculptures, arranged chronologically according to the 6 major historical periods. An interactive learning trail has been set up, punctuated by short, entertaining texts, mini-comics and games to show you just how much you know about the Gauls. Other showcases feature 3D reproductions from the Bronze Age. Themed workshops are organized for children during the school vacations. It's a must-see for the whole family, providing an insight into the daily lives of our ancestors. The museum organizes one or two temporary exhibitions a year, borrowing works from leading French museums. Combine your visit with that of the mysterious and inescapable house of Louis Mantin, a learned bourgeois who bequeathed his home and part of its contents to his native town. Some of the objects on display are extremely rare. Musical tours, workshops, readings and concerts are organized throughout the year.