Fossiele vistand before 35000000

This is a fossilized shark tooth, of unknown date, and origin. This object embodies the power of natural history museums in shaping our understanding of the world. Considered within the museum space, this fossil transcends its existence as a mere relic. It becomes a curated artifact, presented within a framework of scientific knowledge. This institutional act of display shapes our perception, inviting us to contemplate deep time, evolution, and extinction. In 19th century Netherlands, museums were important sites for constructing national identity, and fossils like this would have contributed to a sense of Dutch history and place in the world. As historians, we explore the complex interplay between scientific discovery, institutional practices, and cultural values. Examining the museum's collection records and exhibition histories sheds light on the evolving narratives surrounding our natural world. The fossil shark tooth reminds us that meaning isn't inherent but emerges from the social and institutional contexts in which objects are encountered.