The dictionary defines this all-embracing title as “An object or a piece of work that has been exceptionally skilfully made or produced.” The Burghley Collection of such things is extremely large, varied and fine, comprising treasures collected by the Cecil family over a period of more than 400 years.  Wihtin the collection there are particularly fine examples of Works of Art collected but eh 5th and 9th Earls whilst undertaking the Grand Tour in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. There are excellent bronzes and marble sculptures, a world-famous collection of Japanese lacquer, Objects of Virtu and the dazzling jewelled caskets and chests that held them, together with exquisite woodcarvings from Gibbons and his followers.