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Gluttony in Western painting: a savory lecture

Photo : ©Musée du Louvre Fruits et riche vaisselle sur une table dit autrefois Un dessert-1640-Jan Davidsz de Heem

Nov 14Free

Gluttony in Western painting: a savory lecture

Since antiquity, artists have constantly represented food, from the simplest to the rarest items, and tables set for both peasants and the great figures of this world. Food is omnipresent in painting, charged with religious, symbolic, social, or even political meanings. Banquet scenes, market stalls, kitchens, provisions, still lifes, tableware, and the opulence of tables set for feasts: a gastronomic and pictorial journey from ancient Rome through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, up to the 17th century, the peak of this theme that wonderfully makes your mouth water. Lecture by Valérie Denarnaud-Mayer, art history lecturer.

Bibliothèque Louise Walser-Gaillard (Paris 9th)

Part of the La culture à pleines mains programme

About

With LSF/FR interpreters present

The lecture will be followed by a short "gourmet paintings" workshop

Our take on this event

Take an immersive journey through art history by discovering how painters have captured culinary delight across the centuries. The experience concludes with a hands-on session where you will craft your own masterpiece inspired by classic depictions of food. It is the perfect blend of aesthetic discovery and creative inspiration for art lovers.

Discover the depiction of indulgence in Western art during this insightful lecture hosted at the Bibliothèque Louise Walser-Gaillard. Taking place on Saturday, November 14, 2026, this event invites attendees aged 10 and up to examine how food and gluttony have been portrayed throughout art history. Whether you are an art enthusiast or curious about culinary symbolism, join this session designed for an inclusive audience. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and the presentation features sign language interpretation, ensuring that deaf or hard-of-hearing guests can fully participate in this cultural exploration.

Join us on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 15:00 to 17:00, at the Bibliothèque Louise Walser-Gaillard in Paris's 9th arrondissement. This lecture offers a fascinating look at the theme of gluttony within Western painting, suitable for guests aged 10 and older who wish to explore the history of art through a gastronomic lens.

Inclusivity is at the heart of this event. To accommodate all participants, the session is interpreted in French Sign Language (LSF/FR), and the premises are fully wheelchair accessible. This commitment ensures that deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees can engage with the content alongside the rest of the audience.

The formal presentation is followed by a practical "tableaux gourmands" workshop, providing a creative conclusion to the afternoon. This entire experience is provided free of charge.

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