Luxury on the move!
The National Museum of Qatar in Doha will welcome the Hermès Heritage exhibition titled “In Motion,” from October 16th to November 9th, 2024. This event marks the final part of a three-part series that began with “Once Upon a Bag” in 2022 and “Harnessing the Roots” in 2023. Both of these earlier exhibitions were also held at the museum, and this third instalment promises to be just as captivating.
The Hermès Heritage exhibition series highlights the rich history of the Hermès brand, which was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. Over the years, Hermès has become famous for its craftsmanship and its iconic products, from leather goods to fashion items. “In Motion” focuses on the brand’s relationship with movement and travel. It showcases how Hermès creations have been designed for people on the move—whether walking, riding horses, or using modern forms of transport like bicycles, cars, and airplanes. This exhibition highlights how Hermès had always stayed connected to the spirit of adventure, reflecting a time when the world was faster-paced and people wanted to travel freely.
The exhibition will display a variety of items that tell the story of Hermès over the years, from the collection of Émile Hermès. Some of the standout pieces include the very first Hermès scarf, which features a design inspired by horse-drawn carriages (Jeu des omnibus et dames blanches), and a pair of sturdy Postilion riding boots that are reminiscent of the boots from old myths. Visitors will also see the elegant (Flâneur d’Hermès) bicycle and the Bolide picnic bag, which was inspired by a bag created in the 1920s for car travel. These objects, along with others on display, show how Hermès designs have evolved while keeping their timeless appeal.
In addition to these items, the exhibition will feature cleverly designed objects that demonstrate the brand’s ingenuity. For example, the Pippa writing desk is a small, portable desk that can be neatly folded away when not in use. Another example is the cane picnic basket, which has a hidden compartment filled with cutlery. There will also be the Inversables, two columns of glasses mounted on mobile rings that are designed to stay stable even on a moving yacht or ocean liner.
The “In Motion” exhibition will be presented in five stages, each showcasing different aspects of Hermès’ history and creativity. The exhibition is curated by Bruno Gaudichon, who is also the curator of the “La Piscine” Museum of Art and Industry in Roubaix, France. Exhibition designer Laurence Fontaine has carefully planned the layout to create an engaging and immersive experience for visitors. Overall, this travelling exhibition celebrates the timeless elegance, craftsmanship, and innovation that Hermès is known for, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the world of luxury design and heritage.
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