Rosenbach Museum and Library

Chesire Cat

1865

Wood engraving on paper

Desiel Brothers after Sir John Tenniel

Burn This: Censorship, Secrecy and Survival in the Rosenbach Collection

This object is an example of the Chesire cat and Alice from the story “Alice in Wonderland”.  It is important for the study of early books because it is a rare example of a “proof” print, the process of printing images to go along with text in books.  The print was considered to be of inferior quality according to John Tenniel.  Tenniel wanted it destroyed; yet it survives with evidence of only being singed in a bindery fire.    

The print is displayed on an angle in a glass case.  The room is dim to avoid light pollution and the nearby text gives a short explanation of the reasons behind the object being part of the exhibit.  The point of view is from that of a collector, the rarity, and specialness of the object was apparent through the text.  However, the objects were left to speak for themselves, and without the familiar content of the image, the object could have easily been glanced over.    

Other nearby objects are original copies of “Alice in Wonderland”.  These objects along with their supporting text help illustrate the importance of the entire collection of original prints.  Sir John Tenniel wanted the entire first round of books destroyed because of their imperfection, however they were circulated and survived anyway. 

Understanding book binding as well as the science and art behind printmaking would elevate my level of understanding the object.  Books now are so accessible that we forget how rare and precious they were at the turn of the century.  I could not imagine anyone who would be uninterested in this original print.  The content appeals to everyone, while the object itself appeals to more adult audiences.  If the print was seen in another context however, it could be looked over.  For example, if seen in an art museum in an exhibit focused on engraving, this image would not be as appreciated because of it’s unfinished nature.  By being seen in a library among other rare and partially destroyed books and paper, the importance of this memorable image is elevated.    

http://www.rosenbach.org/

NCC American National Tree

American National Tree

Touch Screen Technology

NCC

“We The People” permanent collection

This object is a technological tree of important people that helped form and support the constitution.  It is an important object in the collection because of its engaging and yet informal nature.  People can navigate it easily through the touch screens and they are able to search for and learn about the people most interesting to them.  It is important for people who may not feel as though the constitution has a noticeable relevancy.  Unorthodox people such as children have effected the constitution, and people searching through the tree of people find unique and powerful stories. 

The American National Tree is displayed near the entrance to the dome exhibit; so it is one of the first displays visitors have interaction with.  Frames are suspended in a three dimensional conical shape with changing portraits.  Beneath the frames are touch screens that allow visitors to navigate through the portraits and stories.  The labeling describes the object and how to use it.  The nearby objects are part of the same exhibit and share the themes relating to the constitution, however this object stands on it own in the center of the space. 

I think everyone has the ability to be interested in this object.  The tactile elements along with the freedom to choose whom to read about enable engagement from all audiences.  Other ways to engage viewers would be to add a personal element.  The touch screens could provide questions and criteria that would allow visitors to see how the constitution is active in their own lives. 

Week 1: Favorite Object

My favorite object is Bernie, my oldest stuffed animal.  My mother gave him to me in 1991, the year my little brother was born.  He is a brown furry dog, designed by the "ty"company.  Bernie has remained important to me for the past twenty years for a few reasons, most of which involve my mom.  She gave him to me when she knew I would need another friend when my brother was born.  As a small child, I never had an imaginary friend, I always had  Bernie, and my mom helped him come alive.  Bernie is always on my bed, sometimes to my embarrassment, but he is a constant comfort that is directly connected to my family.

Elementary psychology and reasons behind children's connections to stuffed animals would be an interesting way to further understand why I still keep Bernie around.  I have a feeling few if anyone would also be interested in my stuffed animal.  An opposing point of view may tell a narrative of immaturity, and not understand why I would still consider my stuffed animal important.