In conjunction with the opening of the "Globes in motion" exhibition、Francois Nawrocki, deputy director of the Maps and Plans Department at the National Library of France (BnF), will present a lecture.
After the lecture, participants are cordially invited to a special tour of the exhibition.

Abstract

From Ancient times to the Middlle Ages and after, scientific progress, night sky observation and exploration of faraway lands have led mankind to design geographical and cosmological representations of the world. Terrestrial and celestial globes produced mainly in the West and in the Arab world demonstrate constant trials to reconcile observation and theory, science and beliefs, craving for knowledge and understanding of the universe mysteries. At the crossroad of science, art and philosophy, the precious globes compile proven knowledge and assumptions, as consistency and perfection were sought for. The BnF collection of ancient globes, now available in a 3D digital format, depict the constantly evolving history of the world, both terrestrial and celestial, as imagined, dreamed of, interpreted, challenged and revised by mankind in the face of scientific proof.
(French-Japanese simultaneous interpretation will be provided.)