Alfred Nobel

1833–1896

"Alfred Nobel - pitiable half-creature, should have been stifled by a humane doctor when he made his entry yelling into life. Greatest merits: Keeps his nails clean and is never a burden to anyone. Greatest fault: Lacks family, cheerful spirits, and strong stomach. Greatest and only petition: Not to be buried alive. Greatest sin: Does not worship Mammon. Important events in his life: None."
Alfred, in a letter to his brother, Ludvig (1887)

Being a modest man who tried to avoid all publicity, Alfred Nobel never had his portrait painted. Thispainting, made 22 years after his death, shows him in his Bofors laboratory (in Sweden), an environment that he preferred.

In his lifetime, Alfred Nobel (1833-1896) was no doubt more famous as an inventor and businessman than for his qualities as a man of science and of letters.

Nobel's inventions, particularly dynamite and the blasting cap, played a decisive role in the industrial revolution of the 19th century. They made possible a lot of improvements within the public communication systems and allowed the modernization of the mining industry.The will of Alfred Nobel would, however, make him famous for another reason. The Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Literature and Peace will forever link his name with scientific progress, along with literary masters and champions of peace. In a way the five Prizes that he created represent a logic continuation of his lifework.

This exhibition, which is especially dedicated to the French laureates in Literature, will also provide an opportunity to honour Alfred Nobel, the man of letters, at his rare moments of leisure.