Discover 15 Enigmatic Museum Artifacts That Defy Explanation
Explore a fascinating collection of mysterious museum artifacts from around the globe, each with an intriguing story that continues to baffle experts and visitors alike.
From devices with unknown purposes to peculiar gifts and jewelry that challenge our understanding, these artifacts captivate the imagination.
In April, Yorkshire Museum launched the #CURATORBATTLE hashtag on Twitter, inviting museum curators worldwide to share artifacts based on specific themes. The first challenge in July was to showcase the most mysterious and enigmatic object, with the museum's curators leading the way.
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Introducing #CURATORBATTLE!
Our entry is a strange 9th-century golden beast with piercing blue eyes. Its ears were designed to hold something, and the protruding long tongue formed a loop for hanging. This unique item’s original purpose remains unknown.
Other curators joined the challenge, presenting some of the most unusual and puzzling artifacts.
Miniature coffins discovered in 1836 hidden on Arthur’s Seat, each expertly carved and dressed in specially made clothing. The origin and purpose of these coffins remain a mystery to both experts and the public. #CuratorBattle #MysteryObject
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Imagine sitting still for hours to have your portrait painted, only for it to be titled “Portrait of an Unknown Elderly Man with Moustache” by an unknown artist. Such is the story behind one of York Art Gallery’s mysterious pieces.
We have no idea what this 20-sided wooden object from 1840–1880 is. Donated in 1938, it continues to puzzle us—yet another example of Victorian eccentricity. Any guesses? #MysteryObject #CuratorBattle
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The Grant Museum of Zoology houses ceramic pots on a bottom shelf that remain a mystery. One labeled 'hyrax' was opened, revealing unexpected contents—definitely not just a hyrax.
These carved stone balls from the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age (circa 4000–1400 BCE) are among the most puzzling items in our collection. Theories range from divination tools to weapons or early abstract art. #MysteryObject
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Fragments of leather, believed to be from Tutankhamun’s tomb, once formed the headdress of the goddess Mut. These remnants, now part of the National Leather Collection, offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian craftsmanship.
A delicate rod of bone or ivory adorned with gold fittings from the Sutton Hoo burial mound raises questions about its significance—was it a symbol of authority or held other powers? #CURATORBATTLE
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A mahogany and brass box with a crank that turns a small mirror remains unidentified by the Whipple Museum. Its purpose continues to elude even the most knowledgeable curators.
Found in a field and nicknamed ‘the motivator’ by its finder, this object’s true function remains a mystery. Suggestions are welcome! #Oxfordshire #FindsFriday
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A peculiar tool resembling a pizza cutter is thought to be related to dentistry, although its exact use is unknown. The RCPSG Heritage team remains intrigued.
What exactly is this enigmatic object? Rotherham Museums and Archives seek answers to this puzzling artifact. #CURATORBATTLE #MysteryObject
Help Solve the Mystery
Possibly a medieval bobbin, this carved wooden item with a face leaves much to the imagination—could it be a magic wand or something more mundane? Norwich Castle invites you to ponder its purpose.
How did ancient Peruvians carve quartz, a mineral with a hardness of 7, without access to harder stones like diamond or corundum? This artifact remains a fascinating mystery. #MysteryObject
Explore the Mystery
The Ephrata Cloister's fragile glass trumpet, unique in North America, cannot be played and is believed to have been intentionally buried as a gift deemed too worldly. Its story continues to intrigue archaeologists.
For more fascinating mysterious objects, explore the comments on the original tweet and join the global conversation.
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