Blog | HPRG Kimono exhibition at the Quai Branly Museum, 22nd November 2022 – 28th May 2023 – Hotels Paris Rive Gauche Blog

Kimono exhibition at the Quai Branly Museum, 22nd November 2022 – 28th May 2023

Initially created in the 17th century and still in fashion, the kimono is being celebrated at the Quai Branly Museum, close to our hotels, with a large exhibition (almost 200 kimonos!) devised by London’s venerable Victoria and Albert Museum.

Exposition Kimono au Musée du Quai Branly du 22 novembre 2022 au 28 mai 2023

The kimono is an iconic part of Japanese culture, probably the most recognisable symbol, and its importance goes far beyond a simple fashion statement.

Conceived during Edo period, this item of clothing brings to mind the ceremony and tradition of Japan, inspiring designers around the world to p lay with its fluid form and shiny fabric.

In the exhibition, you’ll see some remarkable and rare pieces, including a kimono created by Kunihiko Moriguchi, known as ‘a living natural treasure’ in Japan, as well as creations from John Galliano, Yohji Yamamoto, an original costume from Star Wars by Trisha Biggar and even a kimono that once belonged to Freddie Mercury!

Exposition Kimono au Musée du Quai Branly du 22 novembre 2022 au 28 mai 2023
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The exhibition explains the role of the kimono in the country’s development, its place in the world and its evolution over the centuries (especially at the beginning of the 20th century when Japan become more open to the world).

You’ll learn the names of each element (Nagajuban, Hanhaba-obi, Zori…) and understand how the colours and patterns indicated the wealth and taste of the wearer.

Exposition Kimono au Musée du Quai Branly du 22 novembre 2022 au 28 mai 2023
© Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Organised in tandem with the exhibition, you may be interested by:

— guided storytime visits for kids (in French)

— a ‘Japanese silhouettes’ workshop

— a special afternoon for families, helpfully called ‘Family Sunday’ on 26th Febriary 2023

— a special evening event (free for young adults) on 24th March 2023 from 7pm-midnight, with performances, concerts, DJs, workshops…

A catalogue of the exhibition is also available (336 pages, 55€ here at your local amazon).

Catalogue de l'exposition Kimono au Musée du Quai Branly du 22 novembre 2022 au 28 mai 2023

The Kimono exhibition is at the Quai Branly Museum (here) from 22nd November 2022 – 28th May 2023

Open every day except Mondays from 10.30am-7pm (10pm Thursdays). Open Mondays during the school holidays

Admission: 12€ / 9€

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