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Plumes of Paradise: Voyages of an Extraordinary Bird from New Guinea

Photo : Museon, La Haye © Collection Museon-Omniversum The Hague

Oct 13 – Nov 8

Plumes of Paradise: Voyages of an Extraordinary Bird from New Guinea

Prepare to be mesmerized by the spectacular journey of New Guinea's most legendary birds. From vibrant fashion to timeless natural history, this exhibition offers a stunning look at how these creatures have enchanted the world across continents and eras.

Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac (Paris 7th)

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About

Discover the exhibition Plumes du paradis at the Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, a unique look at the extraordinary birds of New Guinea. From September 30 to November 8, 2026, explore how these vibrant creatures have influenced art, fashion, and natural science across continents. Featuring nearly 190 works, including intricate ornaments and historical specimens, the exhibition offers a fresh perspective on our relationship with nature and indigenous knowledge. Admission prices range from 0 to 14 euros. Take advantage of the late-night opening every Thursday until 22:00 to experience this collection in a truly remarkable setting.

This exhibition traces the circulation of plumes and representations of the birds of paradise, artist-birds that create enchantment, originating from the lush forests of New Guinea. Objects of desire, contemplation, and inspiration, these spectacular beings have traversed eras and continents.

Bringing together nearly 190 works—adornments, paintings, naturalized specimens, fashion pieces and accessories, art objects, and illustrated books—the exhibition crosses the perspectives of natural history, art, ethnology, fashion, and ecology. It illuminates how these birds have been collected, represented, admired, or transformed over time, in Oceania, Asia, and Europe.

Conceived in collaboration with scientists, academics, and artists from New Guinea, the exhibition offers contemporary local readings. It invites us to rethink our ties with the living world and knowledge, taking into account the urgent issues of this century, and to discover these brilliant plumes with a renewed perspective.

Our take on this event

The Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac hosts Plumes du paradis, an extensive exhibition tracing the history of New Guinea's iconic birds. These creatures, known for their stunning beauty, have been a source of inspiration and fascination for centuries. The exhibition examines how they have been collected, depicted, and transformed throughout time across Oceania, Asia, and Europe.

Nearly 190 works are on display, ranging from fashion accessories and illustrated books to naturalized specimens and fine art. Developed in collaboration with artists and scholars from New Guinea, the exhibition offers a contemporary narrative that addresses modern ecological challenges while highlighting the deep cultural significance of these birds.

Visitors can view the exhibition from Tuesday to Sunday. Regular opening hours are 10:30 to 19:00 on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For those preferring evening visits, the museum remains open until 22:00 on Thursdays. Tickets are available for purchase, with prices starting at 0 and going up to 14 euros.

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Light rain

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