'Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle' (Fine Arts and Lace Museum) in Calais

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'Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle' (Fine Arts and Lace Museum) in Calais

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A sculpture by Rodin The Museum of Fine Arts in Calais is home to many artworks by Rodin, as well as some by the sculptor Carpreaux. © Peter Alix - age fotostock

See more pictures: 'Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle' (Fine Arts and Lace Museum) in Calais

The 'Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle' in Calais has a large collection of art works.
On display are 19th Century sculptures, such as the scale model of Rodin's 'The Burghers of Calais', and works by his teachers (Carpeaux and Barye) and successors (Maillol and Bourdelle).
In addition to this panorama of late 19th Century sculpture there are two other collections showcasing very contrasting themes, one a set of contemporary photographs, the other a magnificent collection of Dior dresses, directly connected to the rest of the museum exhibitions presenting fashion and lace.
A factory model, a leavers loom (the same model that is still used for the finest and most delicate lace patterns) and lace sample books help plot the changing techniques and working conditions of this industry.
After presenting the history of lace over the centuries, the exhibition turns to the ways this material is used in fashion. In order to illustrate the creativity that lace has inspired in the biggest names in 20th Century fashion, a number of articles of clothing, accessories and lingerie are on display on dummies, including an Elsa Schiaparelli dress, an Emmanuel Ungaro outfit and dresses handmade using Calais lace.
The first floor is set aside for permanent themed exhibitions, which are changed every six months.
Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle
25, rue Richelieu. 62100 Calais, France.
Tel.: +33 (0)3 21 46 48 40.