Thumbnail of Design for a Constructivist stage setting by Alexandra Exter

Design for a Constructivist stage setting by Alexandra Exter

Alexandra Exter's design for theatrical settings has always been distinguished by innovative approach to the interpretation of theatrical space. As a member of the Russian Constructivist group, Exter was keen to introduce principles of architecture, volume and dynamism, all of which are clearly visible in this design for a stage setting created in 1924.

Thumbnail of A-Z of ceramics - E is for Encaustic

A-Z of ceramics - E is for Encaustic

he term encaustic, literally meaning 'burnt in', is given to several quite different artistic processes. In ceramics it usually describes objects, often tiles, with decoration inlaid into their surface using clay of a contrasting colour.

Thumbnail of Owen Jones and the V&A Collections

Owen Jones and the V&A Collections

The sparsity of serious historical attention given to Jones is surprising, considering his role in the history of the decorative arts, design education, and the development of the South Kensington Museum, the continuing success of some of his designs, and continuing sales of 'The Grammar of Ornament'.

Thumbnail of Design for a vaulted ceiling, by Vincenzo Brenna, about 1775

Design for a vaulted ceiling, by Vincenzo Brenna, about 1775

This highly finished and elegantly drawn design was executed by the Italian architect, interior decorator and decorative painter Vincenzo Brenna (1745-1820) around 1776. It represents the vault of the Eagle Room of the Domus Aurea, the Roman palace built by Emperor Nero shortly after the great fire of Rome in AD 64.

Thumbnail of Preparations for 'Carl and Karin Larsson: Creators of the Swedish Style'

Preparations for 'Carl and Karin Larsson: Creators of the Swedish Style'

The Exhibitions Department arranged a one week trip to Sweden in December 1996 for  the V& A's exhibition designer, Sharon Beard, and ourselves.

Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950

From 19 May 2012 the V&A celebrates the opening of the newly renovated Fashion Galleries with an exhibition of beautiful ballgowns, red carpet evening dresses and catwalk showstoppers.

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Design and the Decorative Arts: Victorian Britain 1837-1901

Design and the Decorative Arts: Victorian Britain 1837-1901

Tells the story of design and the decorative arts in Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria.

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Event - Back-packs & Trails

Sat 27 December 2008–Mon 31 December 2012

FAMILY EVENT: Journey across the V&A with fantastic stories, games and multi-sensory materials. Choose from Back-Packs, trails or, for the under 5s, an Agent Animal bag.

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