Exhibition Dissected. Anatomy lessons in the Dijon collections

Beneath the surface of masterpieces lie muscles, bones, tensions… and sometimes a touch of mystery. From 4 December 2026 to 29 March 2027, the Dijon Museum of Fine Arts invites visitors to explore the human body through ‘Décortiqués. Anatomy Lessons in the Dijon Collections ’, an exhibition combining drawings, prints, sculptures and scientific curiosities.

Under the Microscope: When Artists Explore the Body

Before drawing a face, a hand or a figure in motion, artists have long had to learn to see what lies beneath the surface. This is the central theme of ‘Décortiqués. Anatomy Lessons in the Dijon Collections’, on display at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Dijon from 4 December 2026 to 29 March 2027.

The exhibition takes a behind-the-scenes look at artistic training, where drawing the human body forms an essential foundation. It explores three ways of representing the body: idealised forms inspired by antiquity, bodies dissected with the aid of medicine, and representations that are increasingly lifelike. Whether measured, sublimated, fragmented or stylised, the body emerges as a fascinating subject, both scientific and deeply sensitive.

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Magnin Museum: *The Feast of the Gods* by Jan Van Biljert
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Alice COLAS (crédit)

Treasures rarely on display

Good news for the curious: the exhibition showcases nearly 200 drawings and prints from the Musée des Beaux-Arts, most of which have never been shown before, created between the 16th and 20thcenturies. These are juxtaposed with sculptures to provide a better understanding of how artists observed, analysed and reinvented the human form.

The exhibition is further enriched by loans from other institutions in Dijon: anatomy treatises from the Municipal Library, anatomical models fromthe University of Burgundy and preparatory drawings fromthe National School of Fine Arts in Dijon. Contemporary works from the Frac Bourgogne and private collections then challenge the conventions of figurative art.

An exhibition to experience, not just to look at

This isn’t just an exhibition for art lovers or anatomy enthusiasts: a specially designed trail for younger visitors means the whole family can explore the exhibition together. Atthe Exploratoire, the museum’s educational space, visitors of all ages can extend their visit through a range of interactive activities.

And to take things a step further, the museum offers a lively programme of events: guided tours, ‘lunchtimes at the museum ’ sessions with specialists, workshops and activities to enjoy as a family. It’s all about seeing the human body in a new light, without needing a medical degree.

Further information

Period of validityFrom 4 December 2026 to 29 March 2027

PRICESFree

Good to know

Dijon Museum of Fine Arts, in the heart of the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy
A tour tailored for young visitors, with workshops and cultural events throughout the exhibition
Opening hours: 9.30 am to 6 pm; closed on Tuesdays, as well as on 25 December and 1 January

In a nutshell

From 4 December 2026 to 29 March 2027, the Dijon Museum of Fine Arts invites visitors to explore the human body through ‘Décortiqués. Anatomy Lessons in the Dijon Collections’, an exhibition combining drawings, prints, sculptures and scientific curiosities.

Accessibility

The Museum of Fine Arts welcomes visitors with disabilities and provides suitable facilities, including wheelchairs. The exhibition route is accessible to people with reduced mobility, although there are a few narrower sections within the Palais des Ducs. Facilities are also provided for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, visually impaired or blind.

For any requests for assistance, please contact the museum on 03 80 74 52 09 or at musee-des-beaux-arts@dijon.fr.