Nestled in the charming town of Haguenau in the Bas-Rhin department of France, the Musée alsacien, also known as the Musée alsacien de Haguenau, offers a captivating journey through the rich cultural tapestry of the Alsace region. This museum, housed in a historic building that dates back to the late 15th century, is a treasure trove of decorative arts and regional artifacts that provide a fascinating glimpse into the traditional Alsatian way of life.
The Musée alsacien is situated in the former medieval chancery, a building constructed around 1486 that served its original function until 1790. The building itself is a marvel of historical architecture, with its striking bordeaux façade adorned with the arms and seal of the city, imperial emblems, and the crests of local patricians and notable figures. Partially restored in the 19th century, the building retains much of its original charm and character.
One of the most notable features of the museum's exterior is the astronomical clock, a replica of the 16th-century clock from the Town Hall of Ulm, crafted by Isaac Habrecht. Made by the Hörz company in 1904, this clock includes an astrolabe and a planetarium that replicates the movements of celestial bodies around the sun, with a dial measuring 2.76 meters in diameter.
The Musée alsacien's collections are spread across two floors, with the ground floor primarily dedicated to welcoming visitors. As you explore the museum, you'll encounter a diverse array of exhibits that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.
One of the highlights of the museum is its impressive collection of traditional Alsatian costumes, dating back to the 17th century. These costumes, displayed in various vitrines, illustrate the differences in attire based on religion and marital status, such as the distinctive bonnets worn by women in the Hanau region. The museum also features a variety of headgear, including the iconic Alsatian coif with its large bow, known as the Schlupfkapp, which appeared later in history.
The museum's exhibits also include a range of decorative arts and crafts, such as glass paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries, depicting religious figures like Saint Catherine and Saint Martin, as well as notable personalities like General Foy and King Charles X. Additionally, there are wax figurines under glass, including representations of the Holy Sepulchre and the Infant Jesus in the Gardens of Paradise.
On the second floor, visitors can admire an extensive collection of regional pottery, including glazed earthenware from Soufflenheim used for cooking and salt-glazed stoneware from Betschdorf used for food preservation. Reconstructed potter's workshops provide insight into the various techniques used in the craft. The museum also showcases metalwork, with numerous locks, carved barrel stoppers, and wooden molds for Springerle cookies.
A significant portion of the second floor is dedicated to the recreation of a traditional Alsatian peasant interior, complete with a kitchen and a Stube with an alcove. This exhibit offers a vivid portrayal of rural life in the region, with its polychrome armoire from the 18th century, adorned with scenes of the Passion.
As you enter the museum, you'll be greeted by a 1661 stove made of cast-iron plates topped with glazed terracotta tiles. The ground floor and staircase of the museum are home to numerous fireplace plates and stove fronts, most of which were cast in northern Alsace at the Zinswiller foundry or the Jaegerthal forges, owned by the Dietrich family. The oldest plate, dating back to the 16th century, depicts Saint Eloi, the patron saint of metallurgists.
The museum also features a collection of popular imagery, including decorated baptismal letters (Goettelbriefe) and memorial texts (Leichentexte), which document significant events in rural life.
While the Musée alsacien primarily focuses on popular arts and traditions, it also houses a few notable works of fine art, such as The Legend of the Hemp Sower by Charles-Émile Matthis (1883) and Young Girls at Church by Louis-Philippe Kamm (1932).
In conclusion, a visit to the Musée alsacien in Haguenau is a delightful journey through the rich cultural heritage of the Alsace region. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about traditional Alsatian life, this museum offers a wealth of fascinating exhibits that are sure to captivate and inspire. So, make sure to add the Musée alsacien to your itinerary when exploring the charming town of Haguenau!
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