Rural plaisier and experimental glass laboratoryThe history and use of Peacock Island

Inspired by Jean Jacques Rousseau's motto “Back to nature”, the European aristocracy had “ornamental farms” built at the end of the 18th century. The aristocratic court staged their romantic ideas of “simple country life” in scenic architecture. In Prussia, it was Frederick William II and his mistress, Countess Lichtenau, who created a rustic retreat far removed from court etiquette with the Peacock Island Dairy.

The Dairy was built at the same time as Peacock Island House in 1794. The exterior of the building is reminiscent of a ruined monastery. On the ground floor of the Dairy there is a stable where cows were kept. They could be milked personally by Their Majesties. Afterwards, they went into the whey room, where the butter churn can still be seen today, in which Countess Lichtenau probably churned the milk cream into butter. The wooden butter molds in the shape of peacocks have also been preserved.

Numerous original objects from life on the island as a place to experience nature and escape to the countryside not only describe the milk cult of the time around 1800, but also show other aspects of courtly country life, such as games and illuminations. The English and French role models for the island and its buildings are also commented on and illustrated. A memorial room for Queen Louise, who died in 1810, completes the picture.

The Dairy also houses an exhibition cabinet about the alchemist and glassmaker Johann Kunckel, which also focuses on the earliest part of the island's history. Elector Frederick William gave him the Peacock Island as a gift in gratitude for the development of the gold ruby glass. From 1685 to 1688, the scientist ran a small glassworks and a secret experimental laboratory here. The exhibition shows the impressive range of Kunckel's glass experiments with numerous artefacts.

On the upper floor of the Dairy is a magnificent hall with illusionist paintings and stucco work in the neo-Gothic style.