About

Come see the intriguing new exhibition "Wunderkammer" which celebrates humanity's timeless desire to collect and view curiosities. From a mummified cat to a full-length replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, this Cabinet of Curiosity features an eclectic mix of objects from the museum's collections that are rarely on display to the public.

Wunderkammer is literally translated from German as 'room of wonder' and in English it is usually referred to as a 'Cabinet of Curiosities'.

Many Wunderkammer originated in royal treasuries, where the crown jewels and items of regalia were housed with other items of value for safekeeping. Cabinets of Curiosities acted as a precursor to museums and this exhibition will explore the evolution and the continued mass appeal of museums today.

Whilst this immersive exhibition will provide fun and engagement for our younger visitors, it will also consider a more critical view of the history of collecting. Wunderkammer acknowledges and explores the impact of colonialism and instances of exoticism, providing an introspective look at museums and their collections.

Open Wednesday - Sunday, 11am to 5pm. Closed on Bank holidays. Wunderkammer is running until 3rd October 2022.