Habsburg’s Passion for “Indian” Goods to Create the Most Precious Cabinets of Schönbrunn Palace

A significant collection of 'Indian' objects, integral to the creation of opulent room ensembles at Schönbrunn Palace, existed at the Viennese court by the mid-18th century. This discovery sheds light on Emperor Francis I's and Maria Theresa's role in fostering such collections, which included rare plants, animals, and artworks, as part of their broader passion for extraordinary goods. The study examines how these 'Indian' objects were integrated into the palace's design, contributing to its renowned artistic and cultural significance. By analyzing historical records and imperial residences, the research reconstructs the context and purpose of these collections, providing insights into Habsburg monarchs' eclectic tastes and their influence on European courtly culture.

Iby, E. (2017). Habsburg’s Passion for “Indian” Goods to Create the Most Precious Cabinets of Schönbrunn Palace. Investigation and Conservation of East Asian Cabinets in Imperial Residences (1700–1900), 11–22. https://doi.org/10.7767/9783205207139.11