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 in autumn with a workshop in which you can paint and calligraphy like a medieval miniaturist or copyist.

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

• When?
  • Saturday 30 September and Sunday 1 October
  • Saturday 21 October and Sunday 22 October
  • Saturday 28 October and Sunday 29 October
  • Saturday 4 November and Sunday 5 November
  • Saturday 2 December and Sunday 3 December
• At what time? From 14.00 to 16.30 (without break)
• Where? In the workshop just outside the KBR museum
• Who is it for? Adults and children aged 8 and over
• Price: Included in your admission ticket for the KBR museum:
  • Children under 18 and holders of a museum pass: free
  • Reduced rate: €8
  • Standard: €11

Book your tickets Discover the KBR museum