Exotic Switzerland? Thinking through Objects

This lecture explores the dark history of Switzerland through objects, such as the process of making varnish, the impact of varnish-related diseases on workers, and the use of Japanese lacquer. It also delves into the colonial past, including the founding of New Bern in North Carolina and the depiction of human trafficking on porcelain. The presentation highlights the significance of museums as resources for understanding history and art, emphasizing the importance of provenance and conservation. Through a series of artworks and historical documents, the instructor sheds light on Switzerland's complex past and its connections to global narratives.