Archival holdings
Object Collection (holding identifier: OS)
Models, scientific instruments, works of art and teaching materials
Access
The collections are reference collections and can only be viewed on site. Access to the archive is by prior appointment only, to be arranged via email: archiv@mfn.berlin
If you have any questions regarding responsibility or availability, we will be happy to advise you by email. It may take up to 14 days to process enquiries.
Due to the museum’s ongoing development, there may be temporary restrictions on access. The collections are currently inaccessible and are expected to remain so until the fourth quarter of 2027.
Overview
The archive’s collections bring together physical artefacts from the worlds of science, education and museum history. They document how knowledge was produced, presented and communicated.
They include, amongst other things:
- models
- historical model collections (e.g. Blaschka glass models)
- Wooden models of whales for Adelbert von Chamisso (1781–1838)
- Models by Václav Frič (1839–1916), Paul Osterloh (1850–1929) and the model-making workshop of Paul Loth / Rudolf Weisker
- Technical devices and instruments
- Scientific measuring and working instruments
- Everyday objects from the daily life of research
- Art and ceremonial objects
- Busts and small sculptures
- Paintings
- Teaching and exhibition materials
- Wall panels
- Models and objects for educational purposes
The collections provide an insight into the material foundations of scientific work and the history of the museum.
Contact
Mandy Ullmann
Archive Management
Email: mandy.ullmann@mfn.berlin
Telephone: +49 30 889140-8519