Wallpaper - Cabinet of Curiosities

Our Cabinet of Curiosities wallpaper, created by Imary, captures the whimsical, intricate spirit of classical grotesque ornamentation and historic curiosity collections. Set against a weathered, panelled caramel-toned backdrop, the composition presents symmetrical decorative frameworks filled with musical lutes, horns, perched parrots, cherub figures, monkeys riding fantastical mounts, and botanical garlands. Rendered with a fine watercolour-like technique, the motif balances muted earthy browns and caramels with soft touches of blue, rose, and verdant green. As with all our wallpapers, this design is made-to-measure and printed on PVC-free paper with a subtle physical surface structure.

In the room

This is a design with tremendous narrative detail, making it particularly rewarding in spaces where you can take time to look closely at the individual vignettes. We see this working beautifully in a dedicated study, home library, or a formal living room. Because the visual structure relies on tall, vertical ornamental panels and trompe l'oeil framing, it performs exceptionally well on an uninterrupted main wall where the full height of the composition can unfold without heavy obstruction.

In a living room, placing this design behind a low-backed sofa allows the upper scrolls, birds, and instruments to remain in clear view. In a study or library setting, positioning it along an open wall opposite reading chairs or flanked by classic bookcases creates a rich, collected atmosphere. The detailed vertical flow gives height and elegance to rooms with standard or higher ceilings alike.

Styling it

Because our Cabinet of Curiosities wallpaper features an elaborate illustrative structure, we recommend keeping surrounding furniture shapes relatively grounded and classical. Darker timber pieces, such as walnut, antique mahogany, or warm cherrywood desks and consoles, sit naturally against the caramel and earthy base tones of the motif.

To balance the illustrative detail on the wall, opt for upholstery and larger furnishings in solid colours rather than competing prints. Deep velvet cushions, smooth leather armchairs, and understated antique brass lighting fixtures complement the historic, collector-inspired aesthetic without overcrowding the room's visual balance.

Colour combinations

The wallpaper itself centres on a palette of earthy caramel, warm brown, and pale parchment tones, accented with antique blue, dusty rose, muted gold, and soft sage green.

When choosing paint colours for adjacent walls, trim, or architectural mouldings, consider drawing out the deeper caramel or warm parchment shades for a cohesive, enveloping feel. If you prefer a richer contrast, framing the wall with woodwork painted in a deep heritage blue, rich olive green, or burnished oxblood echoes the subtle accent colours found within the parrots, ribbons, and decorative crests.

About our wallpaper

At Wallism, all of our wallpapers are made-to-measure based on your exact wall dimensions. Producing each order individually helps reduce unnecessary excess wallpaper compared to standard fixed-roll formats.

Our wallpapers are completely PVC-free and printed on paper featuring a subtle physical surface structure. Designed to be straightforward to hang, we offer wall murals and mural wallpapers suited to a wide variety of living situations, whether you own your home or live in rented accommodation.