MY TEDDY BEAR
FROM December 4, 2024 – June 22, 2025
Museum of Decorative Arts, Paris
A tender journey to the heart of the story of the teddy bear and Pamplemousse Peluches
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs opens its doors to a touching and captivating exhibition: "My Teddy Bear," a unique exploration of the history and cultural impact of this now-iconic toy. From December 4, 2024, to June 22, 2025, the exhibition celebrates the teddy bear, the undisputed king of toys, by retracing its fascinating journey, from its origins in the early 20th century to its universal status as a symbol of childhood and sweetness.
An astonishing transformation
How did the bear, once feared and respected as the king of animals, become the most tender and popular toy on the planet? This exhibition delves into this incredible transformation. The story begins in the early 1900s, when the teddy bear appeared simultaneously in Germany and the United States, dethroning ancestral toys such as dolls and ride-on animals. Since then, it has captured the imagination of children and adults alike, becoming an object of affection that spans generations.
An immersive and poetic journey
The exhibition showcases historical and contemporary teddy bear specimens, each telling a unique story. It features rare plush toys, sometimes full of emotion, that have spanned the ages and cultures. Among these creations, the endearing characters of Maison Pamplemousse Peluches enrich the presentation: Robert , Paul-Émile , Cachou and Robertto . These modern bears, crafted with exceptional craftsmanship, embody the essence of tenderness and creativity.
At the center of the exhibition, the installation La Forêt Tactile, featuring fabrics from Atelier Pamplemousse, offers a unique sensory experience. Visitors can explore a space where soft and varied furs evoke the comforting textures of stuffed animals. This interactive space invites visitors to reconnect with childhood sensations and immerse themselves in a cocoon of softness.
A timeless symbol
Over the centuries, the teddy bear has established itself as an iconic object, representing innocence, comfort, and resilience. Through archival documents, videos, and personal accounts, the exhibition reveals the many facets of this toy: its place in families, its representation in the arts and media, and its role in sometimes unexpected contexts, such as psychotherapy or luxury collections.
An exhibition for young and old
"My Teddy Bear" is for all ages, from children who marvel at these cuddly companions to adults who long for their own childhood teddy bear. This tender and captivating journey will delight lovers of history, design, and shared emotions.
Visit the Musée des Arts Décoratifs to celebrate this faithful and universal friend, and (re)discover why the teddy bear occupies such a special place in our lives.
