PUPPET MUSEUM

This small museum traces the history and techniques of puppet-making, a popular art form for centuries. The exhibition features an impressive collection of sculpted and costumed puppets. It takes many years of training to acquire the skills needed to perform the puppets' distinctive gestures. In addition to exhibitions, shows offer a captivating immersion in this folkloric universe.

The tradition of puppetry in China dates back over five centuries, taking root in Fujian. They were small figurines used in funeral rites, meant to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Gradually, they evolved into genuine glove puppets, with rag legs, finely carved wooden shoes, richly embroidered silk costumes and a carefully painted and made-up wooden head. Popular during religious festivities, these puppets enlivened streets and fairs, interpreting texts from Chinese literature or the opera repertoire. At the end of the ^19th century, a new type of puppet appeared: the stick puppet. These featured a terracotta head, papier-mâché hands and wooden legs, articulated by a wand that enabled them to be manipulated with striking precision. Some of the puppets, veritable masterpieces of craftsmanship, bear witness to an exceptional level of expertise, which you can admire in this charming little museum.