Amazing Rare Things: The Art of Natural History in the Age of Discovery

Selected from the Royal Collection in collaboration with Sir David Attenborough, the show brings together the works of four artists and a collector (Leonardo da Vinci, Cassiano dal Pozzo, Alexander Marshal, Maria Sibylla Merian and Mark Catesby) who have shaped our knowledge of the world around us. All lived at a time when new species were being discovered around the world in ever increasing numbers. Many of the plants and animals represented in the exhibition were then barely known in Europe. Today some are commonplace, while others are extinct. Family Activity Trail in conjuction with the exhibition. Discover hidden creatures, creepy crawlies and beastly bugs. Learn how lizards defend their territory, look for amazing animals to draw and see if you can spot an insect-eating plant!

Picture above: Maria Sibylla Merian Common or ‘spectacled’ caiman and South American false coral snake, c.1705-10. The Royal Collection © 2008 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Create your own 3D Horse and Carriage 22–25 Aug

Follow activity trail and then make your own 3D carriage to take home

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