This week’s topic is variations on a theme. This made me think of a recent visit to the Paris Natural History Museum where all sorts of species are presented. Some are fake plastic replicas, some are – quite realistic – stuffed animals like these North African lions (extinct). 
A Hyena, not yet extinct nor endangered but diminishing numbers.
As to elephants it’s a complete disaster. Let’s not mention it. Here an African elephant.
Sperm Whales aren’t performing any better. And this isn’t new. I found this humongous character rather intimidating. Well, that’s where the variations on a theme comes in. Almost none of the species we saw there were in good shape. Almost all of them are either diminishing, or extinct or endangered. I found it depressing that our grandchildren might never be able to see even a film with those animals. Boy! What have we done to this Earth?!
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Je suis photographe et aquarelliste. Je pratique la photographie depuis l'enfance et la photographie numérique depuis 1995. J'en ai fait mon activité principale en 2021. Je possède un studio photo dans le 15e arrondissement de Paris
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A slightly different take on ‘variations on a theme’ is the building itself, just as imposing as, but very different from the Natural History Museum in London. Very fine places in which to contemplate the losses the earth is sustaining – thanks to us.
Indeed. Thanks Margaret.
[…] Variations on a theme: evolution – the Antimuseum in Paris (and beyond) […]
It really is heartbreaking to look at these stuffed animals and to think of the species that are disappearing almost before our eyes, isn’t it. I can’t help thinking of the words of wise of Chief Seattle, who said that “Whatever we do to the web of life, we do to ourselves.”
… but on a brighter note, you’ve shown me this favorite museum as I’ve never seen it before! Is the blue lighting a new addition — and is it lit like this all the time?