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RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales: Exploring Human-Animal Bonds at the National Museum of Anthropology

This compelling exhibition uses historical photography to prompt reflection on our evolving cultural relationship with other species.

The National Museum of Anthropology hosts 'RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales.' This exhibition showcases historical photographic portraits from the past century. It explores the complex relationship between humans and animals, addressing themes of companionship, utility, and conflict. Reflect on societal attitudes and cultural shifts concerning other species.

About RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition delves into the historical relationship between humans and animals through a collection of photographic portraits from the past century. It examines themes of companionship, utility, and conflict, prompting reflection on our societal attitudes and ideological constructions regarding other species.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales' (Rational and Irrational? Portraits with Animals) is a collaborative project between the Museu del Pueblu d’Asturies and the National Museum of Anthropology, presented as part of the 'Re-visiones desde la antropología' program. It features dozens of portraits from the past century that showcase the coexistence of people with other animals, offering a window into cultural shifts and a contrast with today's urbanized society. The exhibition invites visitors to question the relationship between humans and animals, which has not always been positive, and the ideological constructions that shape these perceptions. It structures its exploration around aspects such as friendship ('One more of the family' and 'Children and animals'), the use of animals for labor or sustenance ('Companions at work' and 'Raising animals for human sustenance'), and the historical animosity they have inspired ('The enemy animal'). Through these historical images, the exhibition encourages critical reflection on our own thoughts and beliefs regarding the animal kingdom.

Admission and ticket notes

Entry is free. Further details and exhibition materials are available via a downloadable brochure.

RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for RATIONALES E ¿IRRACIONALES? Retratos con animales at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Venue
National Museum of Anthropology
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Curated by José Luis Mingote Calderón, Juaco López Álvarez, and Ana Gracia Rivas.
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