FROM MASTER'S HANDS

Prior to our industrial era, the making of daily objects depended on the talents and ingenuity of our masters and artisans. Their knowledge, transmitted from generation to generation, has left us with an impressive heritage. These traditions, French then British, influenced by the necessities of life and climate, gave birth to works that are unique, simple and beautiful.

The Musée des Maîtres et Artisans du Québec transports its visitors into this forgotten universe and presents the tools, furniture, textiles, ceramics, metalwork, statues, sacred objects and other religious ornaments that constitued the everyday lives of French-Canadians in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Click on the photo for a tour in 3D

The Museum's permanent exhibition entitled, From Master's Hands, displays all of these objects in context in a magnificent manner. More than 350 objects were chosen based not only on their aesthetic qualities, but also on their standing in the evolution of a particular art form or artisan. Grouped by trade, each composition highlights the use of the object or artwork, presents the artisan, and explains some of the techniques employed. This is a unique opportunity to reaquaint yourself with aspects of the French-Canadian culture and to rediscover the arts and crafts practiced by Quebec masters and artisans.

An audioguide of compelling stories told by Fred Pellerin and Denis Gadoury adds an engaging dimension to the Museum's visit. These tales recall how the objects were used in the past, and awaken a kind of nostalgia of past times. Click on the photo to listen to Fred Pellerin

THE NEW TEXTILES SECTION

In April 2011, the textiles section of the permanent exhibition was entirely remodeled with new pieces from the collection: woven blankets, hooked rugs, braided carpet, finger woven sash as well as a remarkable quilt as the central piece.
Design: Patrice Lysaught