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Delacroix, Horses and Other Animals

Photo : Musée du Louvre, dist. GrandPalaisRmn / Tony Querrec

Oct 14 – Apr 18

Delacroix, Horses and Other Animals

Witness the raw intensity of Delacroix’s obsession with the animal kingdom through sketches rarely seen by the general public. From the wild energy of Arabian horses to the primal presence of big cats, this collection offers a rare glimpse into the intimate creative process of a legendary master. It is an ideal escape for those looking to understand the spark behind the finished canvas.

Musée national Eugène Delacroix (Paris 6th)

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About

The Musée national Eugène Delacroix explores the romantic painter's lifelong fascination with animals, particularly horses, lions, and tigers. By examining his sketches, lithographs, and decorative works, the exhibition highlights the creative process of an artist inspired by his 1832 journey to Morocco. Running from October 3, 2026, to April 18, 2027, this exhibition invites visitors into the private world of an artistic master. Entry is ticketed, with prices ranging from 0 to 9 euros, and the museum is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, excluding Tuesdays, to accommodate diverse schedules.

For the Romantic painter, horses, lions, and tigers were an object of study and a subject he depicted in numerous paintings, lithographs, and decorations throughout his career.

The horses he saw during his trip to Morocco in 1832 helped fuel his imagination surrounding the horseman, whether as a soldier or a participant in a fantasia.
The paintings Delacroix considered studies were not intended to be exhibited or sold, but rather to serve as references and sources of inspiration for him.

This temporary presentation places special importance on the painter's creative process.

Press Preview
▸ Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM
Consult the press release here to learn more about the cultural programming.

Exceptional Opening Evening
Guided tour by Claire Bessède, Director of the Delacroix Museum
▸ Monday, September 14, 2026, from 6:30 PM

Guided Tours
▸ Saturdays, September 12, October 10, November 14, and December 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM

Lecture: History of Horses
Presentation of the two latest recently restored acquisitions.
▸ Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 6:30 PM

Our take on this event

Running from October 3, 2026, to April 18, 2027, this exhibition investigates the significance of animals in Eugène Delacroix's repertoire. The focus is specifically on the artist's preparatory studies—works he did not originally intend for public view, but which served as vital references for his complex compositions. Through paintings and lithographs, the exhibition explores how his 1832 travels in Morocco shaped his enduring obsession with horses and wild felines, effectively mapping the evolution of his romantic vision.

Visitors are welcome between 12:00 and 17:30, Monday through Sunday, except for Tuesdays. A series of cultural events complements the display, including guided tours on September 12, October 10, November 14, and December 12, 2026, at 11:00. On October 1, 2026, at 18:30, a lecture titled 'Histoire de chevaux' will present two newly restored acquisitions. Additionally, a special opening evening featuring a guided tour with museum director Claire Bessède will take place on September 14, 2026, at 18:30. Tickets for the museum are available between 0 and 9 euros.

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