The Humboldt brothers worked in the tradition of the European Enlightenment. Alexander became internationally renowned as a naturalist and empirical scientist, Wilhelm as a diplomat, philosopher, and educational theorist. Both were involved in changes that still influence our liberal world order today. With their progressive views and research, the brothers shaped the interface between the old and new worlds.

Tracing this interface is the leitmotif of the catalog design. The impressive folios that Alexander von Humboldt published during his lifetime were the inspiration for the layout. The color scheme—a sophisticated interplay of vibrant pastel shades—is borrowed from Classicism, the stylistic period that shaped both brothers' European lives. As the primary design element, color becomes the presentation surface for the objects. And by differentiating the chapters, color also serves as a means of orientation.