Museum set up by French naturalist stands test of time

French naturalist Emile Licent (1876-1952) could scarcely have envisioned the enduring impact his brainchild, the Hoangho Paiho Museum in Tianjin, would wield over a century after its establishment in bridging cultural frontiers between China and France.

The metamorphosis of Licent's creation into the illustrious Tianjin Natural History Museum, drawing about 300,000 visitors annually, is a testament to his pioneering vision.

The 110th anniversary celebration of the museum kicked off in late September, witnessing a convergence of global researchers in Tianjin, fostering collaborative ventures in the field, and was a highlight during the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and France this year.

Distinguished entities from institutions in France, such as the Rombies Historical and Archaeological Research Society, the National Museum of Natural History, and the Natural History Museum of Nantes, converged during the commemorative event, boosting communication, research and exhibition ties with the Tianjin Natural History Museum.