MA in Managing Art & Cultural Heritage in Global Markets (MAGMa) students visit the Mobilier National, Paris

A Prestigious Institution in French Heritage

Our MAGMa 24-25 Heritage Track students recently visited the Mobilier National in Paris. The Mobilier National is a French statutory corporation which administers the Gobelins Manufactory and Beauvais Manufactory. It is based in the 13th arrondissement of Paris and falls under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture.

Its history goes back to the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne, which was responsible for the administration of all furniture and objects in the royal residences. The Mobilier National continues to administer state furniture but has also expanded from its historical role of conserving, preserving, and restoring furniture to curating a modern collection.

An Immersive Introduction to Heritage Curation

This visit was organized to introduce our students to the world of heritage curation and restoration, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with the institution’s collections and experts as they prepare for their graduation projects.

Lucile Montagne and Camille Mestdagh, Curator of Collections, Mobilier National, greeted our students and offered an insightful presentation of the institution and its remarkable collections. The students were also introduced to the reserves dedicated to design, gilded bronzes, and chandeliers. This behind-the-scenes look provided a deeper understanding of the Mobilier National’s role in preserving and showcasing these exquisite pieces, which span centuries of craftsmanship and artistry.

A Close Look at Restoration Techniques

The program also included a meeting with Dolors Sala-Fenes, Head of Restoration, and Julie Williamson, who guided our students through their department. Students had the chance to witness the meticulous work carried out by the institution’s skilled artisans, gaining valuable insights into the techniques and challenges of restoring historic objects. Witnessing the restoration in real time definitely highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

Exploring Communication and Development Strategies

The final segment of the visit took place in the Campus Room, where Muriel Austerlitz and Marc Bayard shared their expertise on communication strategies and development. Students learned about the Mobilier National’s efforts to engage with the public and foster partnerships, offering a broader perspective on the institution’s mission and impact.

A Key Step in the MAGMa Students’ Journey

This visit was particularly significant for the MAGMa 24-25 Heritage Track students, as it marked the beginning of the development of their curatorial project using the Mobilier National’s collections. Over the course of the semester, they will work closely with the institution to conceptualize and refine their projects, which will be presented as part of their graduation requirements in June.

Stay tuned for updates on the MAGMa 24-25 students’ progress as they begin this exciting journey with the Mobilier National!