Figures of the Fool - From the Middle Ages to the Romantics

The fascinating figure of the fool, an integral part of medieval visual culture, has been studied in terms of social and cultural history but rarely from the perspective of art history, even though the idea of madness inspired and stimulated literary and artistic creativity from the thirteenth to the mid-sixteenth century from the 13th century to the mid-16th century.

This ambitious, thought-provoking exhibition will approach the typically medieval figure of the fool through its imagery. Over 300 works of art - sculpture, objets d'art (ivory, boxes, small bronzes), medals, illuminations, drawings, prints, panel paintings and tapestries - will be displayed according to period and theme.