Reunion Island : The MADOI Bestiary. Fabulous, symbolic, sacred animals
Until JUNE 16, 2024
Mammals, birds, insects, aquatic vertebrates, dragons, phoenixes and other fantastic beasts adorn many of MADOI’s works. More than a simple decorative element, the zoomorphic motif has a strong symbolism referring to a system of literary, mythological, legendary or sacred references specific to the culture which shaped the object on which it is represented. If the bat is associated with the devil and witchcraft in Western tradition, it is synonymous with happiness in Chinese culture. The animal is also a raw material from which man has fashioned a wide variety of artifacts since ancient times. The museum’s objects made of tortoiseshell, ivory, bone, feather and mother-of-pearl refer to a system of values and practices specific to certain eras.
