With Ulrich Pfisterer, Ann-Kathrin Fischer and Anna Carrarini, ZI

Art collections were (and still are) the pride of their owners. In the decades around 1600, more and more illustrated collection catalogs were printed, with which the treasures of a collection - be it paintings, antique statues or coins and medals - could be made known throughout Europe. Although these catalogs also served the purpose of documentation and explanation, the patrons often wanted to signal the importance of their collection through the size and sumptuous presentation of the books. Particularly interesting and outstanding examples from the Central Institute's library will be presented, covering the period from around 1600 to the publication of the Musée Napoléon around 1800.