Self-guided workshop: writing with a quill & painting with pigments

At the end of the Middle Ages, Brussels belonged to the dukes of Burgundy. These rich and powerful rulers and cultured benefactors built up a treasure of inestimable value: the Librairie, a unique collection of manuscripts. Many of the works in this collection, which have survived the ravages of time, are preserved at KBR. You can admire them today at the KBR museum. Combine your visit to the museum with this self-guided drop-in session and explore your skills as a medieval miniaturist or copyist. We provide all the materials and set you up comfortably — you just have to let your creativity flow!

Painting with pigments
In the Middle Ages, illuminators did not use watercolours or gouache in their studios. They made their colours directly from natural materials or pigments imported from faraway lands. Discover the pleasure of creating your own colours from powdered pigments and gum arabic, then illuminate a coat of arms or a detail of a manuscript!

Writing with a quill
Try your hand at calligraphy! Leave your phones, games and tablets at home and become a copyist for a few hours. Quill in hand, discover the art of tracing letters. Tame the thickness of the strokes, take care to round off the lines and avoid smudges… After this experience, you’ll be able to see the artists in action and admire even more the work of the artists who, centuries ago, wrote the fabulous manuscripts on display at the KBR museum.

Practical info
Where? In the workshop just outside the KBR museum
Who is it for? Adults and children aged 8 and over. The session is non-guided.
Price: Included in your admission ticket for the KBR museum