Experiencing nature: the Louvre Museum recounts the meeting of art and science in Prague

In the 16th century, Emperor Rudolf II brought together numerous scholars and artists from all over Europe at his court. Passionate about the arts and sciences, he encouraged the development of both disciplines, contributing to new practices and discoveries.

The Musée du Louvre tells the story of this special period in the exhibition The Experience of Nature - the arts in Prague at the court of Rudolf II. On view from March 19 to June 30, 2025, this exhibition brings together various works, drawings and documents from this period.

It was in a spirit of humanism and curiosity that Rudolph II led his court in Prague. These scientists turned their attention to nature, determined to unlock its secrets. Increased observation, experiments, studies and measurements: armed with their instruments and ancient knowledge, these researchers put their knowledge to the test, trying to understand this living world that sometimes seemed so unpredictable.

Alongside them, the artists took advantage of this energy to enhance their own knowledge. With their brushes and pencils, they helped to make an inventory of the plants and animals that surrounded them. Working alongside scientists, these artists also wanted to reveal the secrets of this living world, using allegories to better understand what lay behind natural phenomena.

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The exhibition at the Musée du Louvre also explains how this study of nature led to the popularization of new artistic practices and creations.

Nature outings, field studies and the ever-changing nature of these subjects have prompted artists to adopt attitudes and techniques hitherto little used. These new playgrounds have also prompted creators to use new materials, motifs and artistic forms.

The Musée du Louvre offers us an exhibition combining art, science and history, to be discovered this spring.