Figures of the Fool. From the Middle Ages to the Romantics

The figure of the fool, omnipresent in the visual culture of the Middle Ages, has rarely been explored from an artistic historical point of view. In the Louvre, this exhibition fills this gap by presenting more than 300 varied works: sculptures, objets d'art, medals, illuminations, drawings, engravings, panel paintings and tapestries. It highlights how the notion of madness inspired and stimulated artistic creation between the 13th and 16th centuries.

A wind of madness blows through the Louvre

The exhibition offers a thematic and chronological tour of the evolution of the figure of the fool.

The fool, far from being simply a mentally disturbed character, is presented as a entertainer, a critic and a subversive. In the Middle Ages, he was often associated with religious representations. They embodied those who rejected God and found themselves on the fringes of society, or those who indulged in love affairs that could lead to their madness and ultimately their downfall.

This character evolved over time, becoming an indispensable part of royal courts and popular festivals.

Want to discover other exhibitions? Have a look at the Paris Region museums.