MODERN ANTIQUES

DateSeptember 20, 1793

Publisher T. Prattent

MediumBlack and white line engraving with period hand color

DimensionsFramed H: 13 9/16" Framed W: 15 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1991-31

DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "MODERN ANTIQUES/ London Publish'd as the Act directs Sep.r 20 1793 by T. Prattent 46 Cloth Fair West Smithfield"
Label TextBy the late 18th century, exhibitions of curiosities were quite popular. This satirical print shows such an exhibit with its preserved reptiles in jars, a crocodile, birds, insects, and an ancient stone relic.

Founded by Daniel Bowen in 1795, the Columbian Museum in Boston housed a vast collection of artworks, wax figures, and natural specimens. This advertisement informed the public about what they would encounter upon visiting the museum, including, “a great variety of Natural & Artificial Curiosities; among which are, Upwards of 200 American and English Birds, Beasts, Reptiles and Insects.”