This year, the Musée du Quai Branly, one of the most iconic museums in Paris, invites us on a fascinating journey through the history and cultures of the world with its exhibition Golden Thread. More than just a simple presentation of costumes, this temporary exhibition explores gold in all its forms, highlighting its privileged place in textile arts. From exceptional costumes to ancestral craftsmanship, each work reveals the use of gold thread as a thread running through a rich cultural and artisanal heritage.
Through an astonishing visual journey, Golden Thread immerses visitors in a world where the Orient meets the Maghreb, Japan, India, and China. The red thread that ties all these cultures and territories together is, in fact, a gold thread: all these costumes feature gold stitching and embroidery, telling the millennial cultural history of these countries. Rare pieces and fashion creations, revealing the evolution of sewing and embroidery techniques, are presented, illustrating a traditional know-how drawn from permanent collections.
The collections, sometimes spectacular, offer a unique glimpse into the art of tailoring, blending Eastern traditions with Western influences. From Haute Couture creations to ethnic pieces, the exhibition presents an impressive range of costumes, sculptures, and accessories, showcasing the richness and diversity of craftsmanship from each region. These works of art open a fascinating window into the history of decorative arts and textiles over time.
A particularly interesting aspect of this exhibition is the emphasis on gold as a precious material and the ancestral techniques of gold thread spinning. Through interactive 3D presentations, visitors can discover the complex process of making these precious threads, offering a true invitation to the beauty of the material. This approach allows for a better understanding of the connection between gold and art, especially through demonstrations and objects that illustrate the techniques used in cultures around the world.
Gold thread is not just a precious material, but also a symbol of power, wealth, and the sacred in many civilizations. By highlighting this masterful use of gold, Golden Thread invites reflection on the role of this metal in art, history, and the customs of peoples around the world. Visitors will have the opportunity to dive into the history of art and cultures, whether African, Asian, or Oriental.
Among the treasures on display, some pieces were created in Paris, where the art of textile goldwork blends with Haute Couture in perfect alchemy. This fusion of tradition and modernity is reflected in the diversity of creations, reflecting the evolution of techniques and aesthetics through the centuries. This exhibition, which aims to be a true retrospective of decorative arts and fashion, is a must-see for enthusiasts of sculpture, textiles, and art history.
In summary, the Golden Thread exhibition is a visual and cultural journey of rare richness, offering a unique perspective on fashion and the arts through the lens of gold thread.
This exhibition is a true invitation to explore the deep connections between textile art, works of art, and world cultures. Don’t forget to enjoy the museum’s guided tour to enrich your experience and discover the hidden treasures of this exceptional exhibition.
And don’t forget to share your experience with the reception team at the Hotel Moderniste!
Until July 6, 2025. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Thursday evening until 10:00 PM.
Photo ©Pablo Heimplatz - Unsplash