Faberge’s Imperial Eggs would certainly be nominated.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts owns more of these than any public collection in the U.S., and “Imperial Rock Crystal Easter Egg with Revolving Miniatures” is a favorite with its dozen miniature paintings on ivory. “Faberge Revealed” is the title of the breathtaking exhibition of the VMFA’s current grand exhibit, and the imperial eggs are accompanied by all sorts of other exquisitries, large and small, ranging from a gold/platinum/diamond tiara to a “Coiling Serpent Paperweight” to a “Bonbonniere” (tiny container for hard candies).

I attended a preview on 6/7/2011 and it is a testament to Richmond’s claim for one of the world’s great art museums.