The museum's rich collection is derived mainly from a curiosity cabinet of a wealthy Saumur aristocrat. Medieval and Renaissance works of art (sculpture, tapestries, furniture, paintings and religious articles) rub shoulders with a substantial collection of earthenware, considered to be one of the finest in France. Porcelain, pottery, stoneware and bisque porcelain from the 17C and 18C from leading French manufacturers (Nevers, Rouen, Moustiers, Marseille, Strasbourg).