Horses, Curiosities, and the Culture of Collection at Early Modern Germanic Courts

Abstract

This article offers a new interpretation of the concept of wonder in early modern Europe by focusing on large collections. It shows that many princelyKunstkammernwere located above stables, and argues that the horses downstairs and the curiosities upstairs performed similar roles in the courtly display of power. The size and design of stables shaped how curiosities were exhibited and viewed. These majestic buildings facilitated cursory viewing experiences of the assemblage of a great number of animals and objects. They did not necessarily encourage the detailed examination of particular and unique exhibits.