Objects of Curiosity: What Will We Discover?

1 West Mount Vernon Place, Level 2

Objects of Curiosity: What Will We Discover? presents objects from the Walters’ historic collection that members of the curatorial and conservation staff have unanswered questions about. The second phase of the exhibition, on view from February 3, answers questions posed about objects in the first phase of the installation, which has been on view since September 2023.

Phase two features 18 additional art objects, many of which have never been on view. In this phase, visitors will experience works that have inspired curiosity in staff members, such as fragments of an Egyptian glass shrine, monumental vases, a Bust of a Napoleonic Military Figure and more. Visitors will also be able to view the Walters’ Copy of the “Mona Lisa.” Works are grouped by question: What is it? Why does it look like this? Is it authentic? and Where does it belong?

Phase one of Objects of Curiosity: What Will We Discover? opened with 11 works, including Standing Warrior Holding a Sword, Table (Tabouret) with Enthroned Prince and Courtiers, and Mirror with Female Figure and Engraved Scene.

These standout works will be on display alongside curatorial and conservation curiosities and insights about the works presented in both phases. Through interactives in Studio 1 West and the galleries, visitors can also explore the research process, share their thoughts, and submit their own curiosities.