Miniature collector's cabinet 1595 - 1605

This miniature collector's cabinet was crafted by Bernard Salomon in the 16th century. Each drawer is adorned with ivory carvings, and the opening flap reveals a complex geometric design. Consider the recurring images of mythical creatures and biblical scenes. These are not mere decorations but carriers of cultural memory. They echo the classical and religious narratives prevalent during the Renaissance. The scenes depicted tap into a collective consciousness, stirring emotions tied to morality, heroism, and divine intervention. Think of how similar motifs appear in illuminated manuscripts or cathedral sculptures, each instance reinforcing a shared cultural heritage. The cabinet itself, a vessel for precious objects, mirrors the human mind, storing memories and experiences. Such objects invite us to reflect on how symbols evolve, adapt, and persist, shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.