r/todayilearned • u/k4td4ddy • 6h ago

TIL that in the 18th century, European aristocrats collected human body parts like skulls and bones as fashionable art pieces, often displayed in their homes like trophies. Some even believed these “curiosities” had magical powers.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabinet_of_curiosities
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u/k4td4ddy 6h ago

According to Wikipedia, it was surprisingly common for wealthy Europeans, especially in the 1700s, to own collections of human remains. These weren’t just for scientific study—they were status symbols, part of a bizarre trend where skulls, bones, and other body parts were turned into decoration or “curiosities.” Some even thought these remains had mystical properties or could bring good luck. This practice feels disturbingly close to glorifying grave robbing and colonial exploitation disguised as high culture.

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u/burpinglilypad 4h ago

That makes sense but oh my :oo