What is a Wunderkammer?
Extraordinary Objects latest exhibition ‘The Last Supper’ celebrates an eclectic mix of all things extraordinary; from the contemporary to the prehistoric. Showcasing a carefully curated selection of rare and unique pieces in a Wunderkammer style, established art names are presented alongside dinosaur skulls, meteorites and minerals.
“Bringing together a diverse selection of works, the Wunderkammer pulls the unusual and extraordinary objects and phenomena together.”
A 'Wunderkammer', also known as a 'cabinet of curiosities' or 'cabinet of wonders', is a term that originated in the Renaissance period of Europe. It refers to a type of collection or room where individuals, often wealthy collectors, would display a wide variety of unusual, rare and intriguing objects. These objects could include natural specimens, scientific instruments, art, artefacts, antiques, historical items, oddities and exotic items from distant lands.
Wunderkammern were early precursors to modern museums and were designed to inspire wonder, curiosity and a sense of exploration. These collections often contained items like fossils, taxidermy animals, minerals, shells, artwork, books and other objects of fascination.
Ferrante Imperato, Dell'Historia Naturale (1599), The earliest illustration of a Wunderkammer
The Museum of Modern Art in New York created their own Wunderkammer in 2008, featuring original works by Louise Bourgeois, Max Ernst and Damien Hirst alongside prints, multiples, drawings and photographs. Similarly to the MoMA’s ‘Cabinet Of Curiosities’, Extraordinary Objects 'The Last Supper' exhibition encompasses a wide variety of works, blending contemporary with ancient artefacts, solidifying their extraordinary status.
Inside the MoMA's 2008 'Wunderkammer' exhibition
Room of wonder
The term 'wunderkammer' comes from the German words 'Wunder' (wonder) and 'Kammer' (chamber or room), reflecting the sense of awe that these collections were meant to evoke. They were popular in Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries and played a role in the development of scientific curiosity and the study of the natural world.
Extraordinary Objects 'The Last Supper' exhibition aims to evoke a similar sense of wonder through our own Wunderkammer. Our collection ranges from meteorites, some predating Earth's existence, to brand new releases by The Connor Brothers and Alma Singer. No specific genre defines the exhibition as the pieces have been selected due to their awe inspiring nature; whether man made or natural.
