Curiosity Boxes
The popularity and production of curiosity boxes appear to be on the rise. Also known as cabinets of wonder or cabinets of curiosities, the latter in reference to the recent horror anthology series by Guillermo del Toro of the same name, these collections of curious and notable objects have a history that dates back as early as 1599.
At that time, they were known as natural history cabinets, and they were often used by aristocrats to entertain guests. These unique relics drew much attention with their corresponding stories and associations with mysterious far-off places and ideas.
Today artists from around the world have widely different takes on these curiosity or oddities boxes. Many incorporate tiny vials filled with found objects from nature such as fossils, butterfly or insect wings, crystals or stones, feathers, or small animal bones. Some are almost presented as miniature dioramas, of which we’ve also written an entire article featuring some amazing work and scenes that will pretty much blow your mind.
We’re especially inspired by the curiosity boxes from Mad Maggie’s Boutique (featured in the photo above) which almost have a dollhouse curio vibe going on, incorporating tiny one-of-a-kind items in wonderfully unexpected combinations. She also sells some pretty rad severed hand soaps… literal soap that is molded like little severed baby hands. Brilliant!
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Article References:
Cabinets of Curiosities and the Origin of Collecting, Sotheby’s Institute of Art
Cabinet of Curiosities, British Library
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