Temporary exhibition "Between science and art"

The microscope served as the zoologist Ernst Haeckel’s (1834–1919) key instrument for his research into marine zoology. It enabled him to magnify, visualise and examine minute structures. With a skilled hand, he recorded what he saw in numerous drawings.

Haeckel devoted one of his first comprehensive research projects to radiolarians. These minute marine organisms possess a delicate ‘siliceous’ skeleton made of silicon dioxide. It was with this work that Haeckel qualified as a professor of zoology at the University of Jena. In the monograph published on this subject, 35 plates illustrate the diversity of radiolarian forms and provide a detailed insight into the microscopic world.

In his scientific writings, Haeckel supplemented his research with his drawings, which he reused for popular science publications. Even today, the drawings from *Art Forms in Nature* are familiar to many.

With this exhibition, we would like to invite you on a journey through history, where you can experience for yourselves what it was like to use a microscope and draw around 1900. Radiolarians serve as a prime example and take centre stage. Historical letters provide an insight into how Haeckel collected these tiny organisms and carried out their preparation for further study. Through manuscript drawings, visitors can trace the process from the initial sketch to the final print-ready illustration. Finally, a modern display establishes a link to contemporary imaging techniques.

We hope you enjoy this fascinating insight into microscopy, where science meets art!