17th-Century collectors trying to fashion a “Wunderkammer” (cabinet of curiosities) might potentially have been interested in all of the following except:
What following?
17th-Century collectors trying to fashion a “Wunderkammer” (cabinet of curiosities) might potentially have been interested in all of the following except:
a.
an unusually colorful mollusk shell
b.
an artist’s rendering of a harbor in Asia
c.
a specially manufactured astronomical measuring tool
d.
a child’s wooden toy
To determine which of the options 17th-Century collectors would not have been interested in when fashioning a "Wunderkammer" (cabinet of curiosities), we need to understand what a "Wunderkammer" typically contained.
A "Wunderkammer" was a collection of various objects, artifacts, specimens, and curiosities that were meant to inspire wonder and curiosity. These cabinets typically encompassed a wide range of subjects, including natural history, art, science, ethnography, and oddities from around the world.
Let's analyze each of the given options to identify the one that collectors may not have been interested in:
1. Unusual geological formations and minerals: Collectors of "Wunderkammer" would have been fascinated by the diversity of the natural world, which would include geological formations and minerals. This option is likely to be of interest to them.
2. Ancient manuscripts and books: 17th-century collectors often included rare and significant books and manuscripts in their collections. These could range from scientific treatises to historical texts. Therefore, ancient manuscripts and books are also likely to be of interest.
3. Instruments used in alchemy: Alchemy was a significant pursuit during the 17th century, which aimed to transform base metals into valuable ones. Collectors with an interest in alchemical practices would have included instruments used in alchemy in their cabinets.
4. Contemporary works of art: This option seems to be a plausible answer, as the concept of a "Wunderkammer" typically focused on collecting objects that inspired curiosity and wonder. Instead of contemporary works of art, collectors would have been more interested in rare and unusual art pieces or peculiarities from other cultures and times.
Based on the analysis, the option that 17th-century collectors trying to fashion a "Wunderkammer" might not have been interested in is "Contemporary works of art."