For the first time in the United States, researchers have undertaken an extensive study of a 15th-century Spanish cathedral altarpiece, and in the process, have unlocked 500 years of secrets involving art, literature, history and religion.

Close your eyes and imagine artifacts and collectibles from 60 sports Halls of Fames, sports governing bodies and other top athletic organizations collected in a single space — in the city that never sleeps. Open your eyes and you’ll see that you’ve imagined the newly-opened Sports Museum of America in New York City.

In January 2009, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, will unveil a pair of 17th-century six-paneled screens from its permanent collection newly restored by conservation experts in Japan.

 “The gloss, splendor, and sheen of this feather cloth is of such exceptional beauty that it must be seen to be appreciated,” wrote Europeans who arrived in Peru in the early 16th century.

As the political world and the U.S. dollar continue to inspire uncertainty, pop culture collectibles continue to offer solid performance, historical insights and simple enjoyment. Whether one is a player in the marketplace, an casual observer or simply a history buff, these are interesting times.

The Walters Art Museum will offer visitors a rare opportunity to examine the ancient Egyptians’ fascination with human and animal mummies in the focus show Mummified, on view Nov. 15, 2008, to Nov. 8, 2009.

The original aquarium building, re-named River Journey, tells the story of the river – following the path of a raindrop from the Appalachian Forest to the Gulf of Mexico.

During her last years she slept on a cot with only her dog for a companion. More than 15,000 glass water pitchers hung from her barn’s ceiling, and every other imaginable place.

The Field Museum’s newest exhibition, The Aztec World, gives visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the otherworldly grandeur and sophistication of one of history’s great civilizations.