The “Christening and much more” special exhibition presents numerous highly desirable collectors' items. Pride of place probably goes to the elaborate silver rattles with coral in countless shapes. A considerable proportion of the exhibition is devoted to christening gifts. The first evidence of the custom of godparent gifts comes from 13th-century Germany. The exhibition allows the development of this tradition to be traced over the centuries. Among the most popular gifts given by godparents to this day are money as well as mugs, cutlery and christening plates that accompany the godchild his or her whole life long. Another particularly interesting aspect is the wide variety of christening cards; the oldest in the exhibition dates from 1819. Numerous original photographs in very different styles provide an indication as to how a baby would be decked out for its christening in those days.  

The wealth of examples is remarkable, in particular the christening gowns and finely made silk christening cushions with Brussels lace. The collection of beautiful old christening gowns shows impressively how elaborate and voluminous they were in those days. “Christening and much more” takes the visitor on an incomparable journey through time to discover the origins, history and meaning of this ritual. With their diversity and uniqueness, the exhibition objects provide a splendid impression of the importance of christening.