Tolkien's World Comes to Life at the College des Bernardins

Abuzz with excitement, as the College des Bernardins unveils its latest cultural gem: the "Aubusson Tisse Tolkien" exhibition. Running from March 21 to May 18, 2025, this free exhibition is a must-see for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and lovers of fine craftsmanship alike. The event marks the first time these extraordinary tapestries, inspired by Tolkien's legendary works, leave their home at the Cité internationale de la Tapisserie in Aubusson to grace the historic halls of the College des Bernardins.

The exhibition features 15 stunning tapestries and carpets, each intricately woven to depict scenes from Tolkien's masterpieces, including "The Hobbit", "The Lord of the Rings", and "The Silmarillion". Visitors can also marvel at memorabilia from Tolkien's life, such as his academic robe, cigarette case, and first editions of his books. The display is thoughtfully arranged in the Bernardins' medieval nave, sacristy, and grand staircase, creating an atmosphere that feels as timeless as Middle-earth itself.

Here are the key techniques and processes involved in creating these stunning works of art:

1. Cartoon Creation

The process begins with the creation of a "cartoon", which is a full-scale drawing or painting that serves as the design blueprint for the tapestry. For this project, the cartoons were based on J.R.R. Tolkien's original illustrations, ensuring fidelity to his artistic vision.

2. Dyeing and Yarn Preparation

Wool and other fibers are dyed to achieve the precise colors needed for the tapestry. Aubusson's dyeing techniques are renowned for their ability to produce vibrant and long-lasting hues.

3. Weaving Techniques

The tapestries are woven on a "basse-lisse" loom, a horizontal loom that allows for intricate detail. The weavers work from the back of the tapestry, following the cartoon as a guide.

Techniques such as "point noué" (knotting) and "tapis ras" (flat weaving) are used to create texture and depth.

4. Collaboration and Expertise

The project involved multiple artisans, including dyers, weavers, and designers, working in harmony. Seven workshops contributed to the creation of the tapestries, making it a collective effort.

5. Integration of Tolkien's World

The tapestries not only depict scenes from "The Hobbit", "The Lord of the Ring", and "The Silmarillion" but also include elements like the map of Middle-earth, which was drawn by Christopher Tolkien. This integration required meticulous attention to detail to honor the literary and artistic legacy of the Tolkien family.

6. Preservation of Tradition

The exhibition highlights the enduring vitality of Aubusson's tapestry-making tradition, showcasing how age-old techniques can bring modern and fantastical stories to life.

This project is a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans involved, as well as the timeless appeal of Tolkien's works.

But the magic doesn't stop there. The College des Bernardins has curated a rich program of events to complement the exhibition. Highlights include musical performances inspired by Tolkien's universe, a Tolkien Reading Day featuring a marathon reading of "The Silmarillion", and a series of lectures exploring the philosophical and theological themes in his work. For those seeking a hands-on experience, there's even a calligraphy workshop where participants can try their hand at Elvish script.

About the College des Bernardins

Nestled in the heart of Paris at 20 rue de Poissy, the College des Bernardins is a former Cistercian college that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and intellectual hub. Its mission is to foster dialogue and reflection on contemporary issues through art, education, and public discourse. The building itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its soaring vaulted ceilings and serene cloisters providing a perfect backdrop for events that bridge the past and present.

Upcoming Agenda

The College des Bernardins is no stranger to hosting thought-provoking and inspiring events. Beyond the Tolkien exhibition, its spring agenda includes:

- March 24: A lecture on "Tolkien and Nature" by Rémi Brague.

- April 4-5: A musical festival featuring performances by the Orchestre de la Garde Républicaine and Alexandre Launay.

- April 26: A screening of Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

- May 16-18: An academic colloquium on the Christian resonances in Tolkien's Middle-earth.

Whether you're a lifelong Tolkien enthusiast or a newcomer to his world, the College des Bernardins offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and depth of his creations. Don't miss this chance to journey to Middle-earth without leaving Paris!

Address: 20 rue de Poissy, 75005 Paris, France.

-Open Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Sundays and public holidays, the exhibition is open from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM

You can explore events and sign up directly on their official website.