Bourbaki Panorama
Luzern
The Bourbaki Panorama is a remarkable circular panoramic painting located in Lucerne, Switzerland, illustrating the internment of the French Armée de l'Est in neutral Switzerland at the end of the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71). Created by Swiss artist Édouard Castres and his team, including Ferdinand Hodler, the panorama measures 115 meters in length and originally stood about 14.5 meters high. It depicts the weary French soldiers crossing into Switzerland, disarming, and receiving aid from local villagers and the Swiss Red Cross, emphasizing Swiss neutrality and humanitarianism rather than military victory. The painting is displayed in a specially designed hexadecagonal building since 1889, accompanied by three-dimensional figures and objects to heighten the immersive effect. The Bourbaki Panorama remains one of the few surviving giant panoramic paintings worldwide and serves as both a cultural monument and a testament to 19th-century media history.
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Astuce: Visit the Bourbaki Panorama between April and October when it is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, and from November to March with slightly reduced hours. Consider joining one of the museum's public guided tours or special events to deepen your understanding of the artwork and its historical context. Tickets are available on-site, but purchasing in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for groups, children, and seniors. The museum is accessible and offers an immersive 360° experience, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Faits intéressants
- •The Bourbaki Panorama is one of the few remaining giant panoramic paintings worldwide, representing a significant piece of 19th-century media history.
- •Édouard Castres, the artist, had personally accompanied the French Armée de l'Est as a medical volunteer during the Franco-Prussian War.
- •Ferdinand Hodler, a notable Swiss painter, was part of the team that worked on the panorama and is also depicted within the painting.
- •The panorama was originally about 14.5 meters high but was cut down twice, now standing at approximately 9.8 meters tall.
- •The immersive effect is enhanced by three-dimensional objects placed in front of the painting, such as figures, military equipment, and a railway carriage.
- •The Bourbaki Panorama building in Lucerne was originally constructed to house a different panorama depicting the Battle of Sempach, which was never completed.
Histoire
The Bourbaki Panorama was commissioned in 1876 by the Belgium Panorama Society to commemorate the internment of the French Armée de l'Est in Switzerland after their defeat in the Franco-Prussian War.
Édouard Castres, who had served as a medical volunteer with the army, led the creation of the panorama with a team of painters.
It was first exhibited in Geneva in 1881 before being transferred to Lucerne in 1889, where it has been displayed ever since.
The painting was twice reduced in height during the 20th century due to building renovations.
In 2024, the panorama underwent a major restoration focusing on its lighting system, optical apparatus, and visitor platform, preserving this historic artwork for future generations.
Guide du lieu
Central Viewing Platform1889
The circular platform at the center of the panorama allows visitors to stand surrounded by the 115-meter-long painting, creating an immersive experience as if within the historical scene itself. The platform includes original elements from 1889, such as painted metal railings and seating, recently restored.
Panoramic Painting by Édouard Castres1881
The main artwork depicts the internment of the French Armée de l'Est in Switzerland after their defeat in the Franco-Prussian War. It shows the meeting of French General Justin Clinchant and Swiss General Hans Herzog, as well as French soldiers crossing into Switzerland and receiving aid from locals and the Red Cross.
Surrounding Exhibition Spaces
The museum hosts rotating special exhibitions, educational programs, and events that explore the history, art, and cultural significance of the panorama and its themes of war, neutrality, and humanitarian aid.
Contact
Téléphone: 041 412 30 30