Bourse aux fèves du Musée de Blain

The Bourse aux fèves du Musée de Blain: A One-of-a-Kind Event

Blain, a town in northern Loire-Atlantique, hosts one of the most original and specialized events in the department: the Fava Bean Fair organized by the Musée de Blain. Every April, the Salle des Fêtes on Place Jean Guihard welcomes collectors, enthusiasts, and the curious around this unique passion: fabophilia, the art of collecting fava beans and King Cake toppers.

Fabophilia: A Popular and Little-Known Passion

King Cake fava beans constitute a universe of collection in their own right. These small figurines, initially made of porcelain, then earthenware, ceramic, or plastic, represent an infinite variety of themes: historical figures, animals, cartoon heroes, famous buildings, everyday objects, or artistic creations. Some series are produced in very small quantities and become true collector's items sought after by fabophiles worldwide. The value of a rare fava bean can reach several tens, or even several hundred, euros.

A Gathering of Collectors from All Over France

The Blain Fava Bean Fair attracts collectors from all regions of France, sometimes even from abroad, making this event a national rendezvous for the fabophile community. Exhibitors offer old and new fava beans, rare or common, for sale, purchase, or exchange. It is also an opportunity to have your finds appraised, complete series, or discover new collection themes.

The Musée de Blain and its Cultural Role

The Musée de Blain, guardian of local memory and heritage, organizes this fair as part of its mission to promote collections and popular cultural practices. Fabophilia fits into the tradition of table arts and French gastronomic heritage, of which the King Cake is one of the most emblematic expressions. The museum thus contributes to the recognition of this popular art.

Blain, at the Heart of the Ligérien Bocage

Blain, a sub-prefecture of Loire-Atlantique, is located in the north of the department in the Breton bocage. With its rich medieval heritage, including the Château de la Groulais, a Rohan residence, and its collegiate church, the town offers a remarkable historical setting for its visitors. The Salle des Fêtes, Place Jean Guihard, regularly hosts cultural and sporting events that contribute to the dynamism of this commune of some 10,000 inhabitants.