Temporary exhibition

December 2010 to December 2011: Parchment Mysteries

The Parchment Mysteries exhibition immerses visitors in the day-to-day life of major abbeys in the Middle Ages, and reveals the work of the famous manuscript illustrators. Parchment-making and working is explained by means of a faithfully recreated stretching frame and illustrator's desk. More than 30 exhibits are on display from the 12th and 13th century from Aulps Abbey, the Chablais and the Savoy, revealing secrets about Sir Thorembert de Ballaison, Lady Pétronille de Rovorée, the revolt by the abbey's subjects in  1311, and even the Marignier pear-seller...Giant illustrated modern cartoon illustrations are shown, featuring medieval themes (The Third Testament, Seven Missionaries, The Lord's Path), allying the skill of the medieval artists with today's illustrators.