These early collections, centuries ago, were stored in pieces of furniture called Cabinets of Wonders. The cabinets were ornately carved, with dozens of tiny doors and drawers and hidden spaces filled with a nearly infinite variety of amazing items. Here, one could find everything from precious gems to unicorn horns, intricately carved ivory, and magical cups that could cure all poisons. Great and glorious works of art resided in these collections, side by side with the wonders of nature.
Wonderstruck
Brian Selznick