Morbid Curiosities: The Fascination with Unusual Collectibles
Shrunken heads, fetal skeletons, and other bizarre collectibles intrigue collectors across the globe. This niche market showcases unique items that capture the fascination of many.
The Allure of the Macabre
“While perhaps we aren’t the most lighthearted bunch, I’d characterize collectors of the macabre as inveterately curious and inquisitive, iconoclasts and, as a lot, deep thinkers who never receive an answer they don’t counter with ‘why?'” says Jack Kump, the owner of a unique shrunken head.
A Diverse Collection
Many collectors have unique reasons for delving into the world of morbid curiosities. For instance:
- Paul Booth: A tattoo artist who identifies as a “decorator of the macabre,” Paul’s collection began during his travels where he discovered strange artifacts in antique stores and mortuaries.
- Steve Erenberg: With a passion for early electrical devices, Steve collects bizarre helmets that were used in the early 20th century for low-voltage facial treatments.
- Ryan Matthew Cohn: Cohn’s fascination started in childhood, collecting animal bones and later receiving a human skull as a gift, which only fueled his passion for unique specimens.
- Nicole Angemi: A pathologist’s assistant with a significant social media following, Nicole began her collection with specimens from a hospital morgue.
Exploring Historical Medical Artifacts
Collectors often gravitate towards medical specimens and early medical photography. For example, Jean-Bernard Gillot owns a shop in Paris specializing in medical curiosities, including a fascinating chin reconstruction photo from 1905.
A Unique Community
The community surrounding morbid collectibles boasts a diverse array of individuals, each contributing to the rich tapestry of this intriguing field. These collectors support one another and share their stories, creating a vibrant culture around their passions.
