Collector’s Cabinet With Miniature Apothecary’s Shop

The focus of this large book is an 18th century Dutch cabinet from the Rijksmuseum’s furniture collection. This cabinet houses a collection of curiosities including a mini-apothecary’s shop filled with over 300 jars, pots, and bottles containing medicines. Concealed behind the rear wall of the cabinet, 55 secret drawers reveal a varied collection of over 2,000 naturalia specimens – including seeds, flowers, roots, resins, ores, and a great deal more. The cabinet was probably owned by a wealthy doctor or pharmacist and its contents were intended as a curiosity, for the amusement of a select group of friends. 21st century readers will be equally impressed by this exceptional Dutch collector’s cabinet.