The exhibition 'When Paganini Meets Ysaÿe: The Devils' Violins,' presented at the Grand Curtius until March 7, 2027, immerses visitors in the extraordinary legacy of Niccolò Paganini and his influence on the Liège violin school. The event highlights how the Genoese master's genius shaped generations of musicians in Liège and across Europe.
Featuring significant loans from Belgian and Italian collections, the exhibition unveils rare pieces such as Paganini's personal guitar, major autograph manuscripts, and commemorative objects. These items offer a closer look at the historical reality of an artist who became a legend. An artistic lineage is traced from Paganini to his student Camillo Sivori, through Henry Vieuxtemps, Eugène Ysaÿe, François Prume, and César Thomson, with Liège serving as a key center of influence.
A unique collection of fourteen historical violin bows from the 18th and 19th centuries, signed by masters like Pierre Tourte, François-Xavier Tourte, and Léonard Tourte, is also on display. These masterpieces illustrate the innovations that enabled the emergence of modern virtuosity, emphasizing the dialogue between instrument, performer, and musical creation.
The exhibition also underscores the crucial role of instrument making through historical and contemporary instruments, notably from the International String Quartet Competition of Liège and the Museum of Lutherie. Organized under the auspices of the City of Liège, recognized by UNESCO as a City of Music, this event confirms the city's standing among Europe's major cultural hubs.
A rich program of satellite activities is offered throughout the exhibition, including concerts, lectures, guided tours, and workshops for all audiences. These events will take place at three venues: the Grand Curtius Museum, the Auditorium of the La Boverie Museum, and the Grand Auditoire Montefiore.
The exhibition is accessible from Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, except on Tuesdays and certain public holidays. Ticket prices range from €6 for seniors to €10 for adults, with discounts for groups and free admission for those under 26, teachers, MuseumPassMusées holders, and on the first Sunday of each month. Online booking is recommended.
