
This is a reminder that the meaning of things is neither fixed nor inherent. Instead, it is the physical and temporal context of an object that determines its significance. That's what makes museums such interesting places: their collections can be reformulated in all sorts of minor and major ways. Each change inside (and outside) the museum will alter the nature of the collection. So, even if Mrs Carré is destined to return to the comparative obscurity of the miniatures collection of Sweden's Nationalmuseum, she will have gained new-found exposure. Perhaps her fame might spread? The next time you look for her another label might have taken her place informing you that Mrs Carré is currently touring the great museums of the world in a glare of publicity. Like everyone, of course, she will at some point have to come back home. But what memories she'll have! Her exploits will be charted in lavishly illustrated exhibition catalogues, books and postcards. Who knows, she might one day become a saucy fridge magnet...