ABSTRACT
This paper explores how the material culture of the past in Iceland became the subject of government in the early twentieth century in relation to the Antiquarian Collection, later the National Museum of Iceland. The role of one of the key players in this process, Matthías Þórðarson (1878–1966), State Antiquarian and Director of the National Museum from 1908 to 1947, will also be examined. The establishment of national museums in the nineteenth century was part of the nation building process and considered a means to construct national identity. In a colonial context, Iceland was part of this development, pursuing modernity through the creation of cultural institutions. A look at the main features of the material culture Þórðarson collected through his four decades at the National Museum provides insight into the discourse he contributed to as an intellectual, member of the bourgeoisie, and director of a cultural institution. It also sheds light on the meaning of the collection. The collection is grounded in a European museum tradition and demonstrates an emphasis on archaeology and science, but also on aesthetic value as a selection criterion. What does that reveal about use of the past for present aims, and the aspirations for the nation that an individual endeavoured to achieve?
