1001 Remarkable Objects presents an unexpected juxtaposition of objects in 25 rooms that lead us on a journey across time and memory. The selection includes objects that have never been exhibited until now alongside much loved Powerhouse Collection icons.
‘We rejected the nomenclature of “treasures” or “masterpieces” and instead determined all choices must be in some way “remarkable” – whether by virtue of rarity, visual appeal, social history or an ability to invoke wonder.’
Extraordinary objects include the only surviving fragment of the Lockheed Altair aircraft Lady Southern Cross flown by pioneer aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith for his final flight in 1935; a section of original Transatlantic cable from 1858; a mousetrap making machine designed in Sydney; an Edo period samurai warrior’s suit of armour; a 1.5 metre tall Mintons ceramic peacock from the 1870s and a Detroit Electric car manufactured in 1917.
Details
Curator Tours
Explore 1001 through free Curator and Volunteer-led tours. Each session will highlight different pieces from the 1001 objects on display.
1–2pm Thursday 14 September, Anni Turnbull
1–2pm Friday 6 October, Anni Turnbull
1–2pm Friday 27 October, Eva Czernis-Ryl
1–2pm Friday 17 November, Eva Czernis-Ryl
1–2pm Friday 8 December, Eva Czernis-Ryl
Volunteer-led tours run daily at 11am from Monday-Friday. Places are limited and bookings are recommended.
Powerhouse Collaborators
Object No. 2001/85/1-1
Standard ‘Supreme’ mousetrap making machine by AW Standfield and Co. Photo: Anthony Potter.
Object No. H5127
Baron Schmiedel bust by Johann Joachim Kändler
Object No. 94/64/1
Aircraft undercarriage from Lockheed Altair monoplane 'Lady Southern Cross'
Object No. 2001/84/133
'Kylie Showgirl' costume worn by Kylie Minogue in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony
Object No. 97/208/1
Pair of womens 'Super Elevated Gillie' shoes by Vivienne Westwood