Musée de l'Image Populaire - François Lotz

About the museum

The Musée de l'image populaire opened in 1999 in Pfaffenhoffen, now part of the commune of Val-de-Moder. It belongs to the network of museums of the Parc naturel régional des Vosges du Nord. It occupies the former Moritz brewery, a fully renovated Renaissance building that is among the oldest houses in the village.

The collections come mainly from the donation of notary François Lotz and Dr. Kieffer; they are rich in reverse-glass paintings and supplemented by private gifts and purchases. They show how, in the 19th century, rural families in Alsace had images made by hand to commemorate the great milestones of life: baptism, confirmation, military service, marriage or death.

The circuit presents these images and their techniques: baptism wishes from the 17th to the 19th century, souvenirs of First Communion, conscription or regimental service, canivet cut-outs, reverse-glass paintings and verres églomisés. Temporary exhibitions and workshops complement the visit.

Highlights

• Alsatian baptism wishes from the 17th to the 19th century
• Reverse-glass paintings and verres églomisés
• Images cut out with a canivet
• Souvenirs of confirmation, conscription and marriage
• Housed in the former Moritz brewery, a Renaissance building

Permanent exhibition

• Collection permanente : l'image populaire alsacienne – Alsatian memorial images from the 17th to the 19th century: baptism wishes, reverse-glass paintings, canivet cut-outs and souvenirs of rural life.

Founded

1999

Operated by

Commune de Val-de-Moder, en partenariat avec le Parc naturel régional des Vosges du Nord

Admission & discounts

The educational visit package must be requested directly from the museum.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

All areas of the museum are accessible to people with reduced mobility. A drop-off zone (dépose-minute) is available in front of the museum, and adapted toilets are provided. The “Kit à toucher” allows a tactile visit on prior request.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Kids’ birthday parties

The treasure hunt “Les secrets de la malle du grenier” (on the trail of Uncle Hans) is available all season along the circuit. The museum also hosts children's birthday parties with a playful visit, making a keepsake object and an afternoon snack.

Getting there & parking

A drop-off zone (dépose-minute) is available in front of the museum. A bus stop reserved for groups is located on rue du Faubourg.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

The museum has a shop.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit