This display case shows the development and stylistic change of scientific and artistic depictions of animals from the late Middle Ages to the Renaissance. The 'Bestiary from Peterborough' [41] contains traditional late antique natural history and mythological knowledge about the appearance and behavior of real  and fantastical animals. The characteristics described are always placed in a Christian moral context.

The 'Vogelbuch' by Conrad Gessner [38] marks the transition from allegorical to empirical descriptions of animals and thus laid the foundation for a new understanding of the natural sciences, in which animals were increasingly viewed as biological beings in their natural environment. In comparison to the previous works, the Model Book of Giovannino de Grassi [42] is characterized by its artistic focus, whereby the anatomical accuracy and attention to detail of the animals are in the foreground. The 'Vogel- Fisch-, und Thierbuch' [40] is both: an important work of early modern zoology through the descriptions of native animals and their lifestyles and a work of art through the detailed illustrations of the animals described in their natural habitat.

Da Vinci's observations and technical drawings on the Flight of Birds  [39] is a prime example of the progressive scientific study of animals and their benefits for mankind. In his drawings, he not only examined the anatomy and flight of birds, but also attempted to transfer the principles of bird flight to machines.

The combination of alchemical and herbal teachings between the 15th and 16th centuries reflects the increasing synthesis of mystical philosophy, scientific observation and medical knowledge. The philosophy of alchemy not only sought to produce the "philosopher's stone" or transmute metals into gold, but also explored the influence of natural elements on human life.

Among other things, this display case shows the 'Splendor Solis' codex [44 and 46], a magnificent work from the late 15th century in which alchemical processes, such as the production of the philosopher's stone, are described and visualised in masterfully illustrated miniatures. Botany and herbalism were also central to the development of alchemical processes. The 'Voynich Manuscript' [43], an enigmatic work written in secret script, contains astrological, astronomical and medical illustrations alongside alchemical or botanical illustrations, such as the depiction of women bathing in ponds or thermal baths next to a zodiac wheel.

In the manuscript 'Dioscorides by Cibo and Mattioli' [45], an alchemical and medical collection from the 16th century, there is a detailed overview of the healing powers of plants and substances that served the alchemists as a means of achieving transcendental goals. Pietro Andrea Mattioli's work combines the ancient teachings of Dioscorides with alchemical ideas and illustrates how alchemy influenced medical and chemical practices and paved the way for modern chemistry.

This display case shows a brief excursion into the late medieval development of medicine in the transition between natural herbal medicine, the belief in Christian spiritual healing and the first contributions of practical medical techniques. The 'Treatise on Medicinal Plants' [47] contains descriptions and colorful miniatures of plants and herbs that were used in the Middle Ages to cure diseases and minor ailments.

Astrological aspects were also part of the medieval understanding of medicine. The 'Zodiac Man' [48] illustrates this connection by showing which parts of the body are particularly susceptible to illness or healing at certain times of the year, depending on the astrological constellations. The 'Cistern of Bethesda' [49], on the other hand, represents a more Christian-spiritual understanding of healing. Mentioned as a healing spring in the Gospel of John, the depiction of the cistern serves as a visual metaphor for the healing aspect of water and the connection between divine intervention and medical healing.

However, alongside astrological or Christian-influenced understandings of medicine, the practical and technical instruction of surgical procedures also became increasingly relevant. 'Chirurgia' [50] is an important medical manuscript from the late Middle Ages, which primarily describes surgical practices and techniques in miniatures. It is a special medical-historical source that offers insights into the surgical knowledge of the time and had a significant influence on the development of modern surgery.