Barbier-Mueller museum reopens with an exhibition of its "jewels"

The Barbier-Mueller Museum has reopened after being closed for several weeks for renovations. Now the private museum devoted to ancient art from Africa, Asia and Oceania is celebrating its 30th anniversary with new exhibits, including an expo of its “fleurons” or “jewels,” the finest works of art in its collection from Africa and Oceania.

These include a selection of African ceramics, plus artifacts made from iron, bronze and ivory.

One part of the exhibit highlights intricate wooden carvings from Papua New Guinea, while another offers a comprehensive display of containers dating back 7,000 years.

The museum has its root in the first acquisition of a work of art made by Geneva resident Josef Mueller (originally from Solothurn) 100 years ago. From a young age Mueller was a prodigious collector of all forms of art, including works by Picasso, Matisse and Cézanne. At at a time when so-called primitive works of art from Africa were derided, he was one of the first to appreciate their artistic and historic value. His son-in-law, Jean-Paul Barbier, 77, is carrying on the family tradition. The collection contains over 7,000 articles, including works of art, such as sculptures, fabric and artifacts, from primitive and classical times. Many of these works are considered to be unqualified masterpieces.

The museum is located in the heart of Geneva’s OldTown, at 10, rue Jean Calvin.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, check the “Group of Seven” museums listing in the English Corner’s Arts section.

http://www.barbier-mueller.ch/