Japanese art & design: pictorial narrative
Traditional Japanese pictorial decoration is conceptual rather than realistic, and reads from right to left. One pi…
Read articleSilver dolphin basin by Christiaen van Vianen, 1635
This embossed silver basin and a now lost ewer were used for rosewater. They would have been brought to the table f…
Read articleCeremonial hat for eating Bouillabaisse: Eileen Agar 1936
The 'Ceremonial Hat for Eating Bouillabaisse' by British surealist Eileen Agar, was one of the most unusual objects…
Read articleA-Z of Ceramics - P is for Palissy
Bernard Palissy (born about 1509/10, died about 1585) was a colourful and romantic character. Although patronised b…
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Mr Fish
Men's fashions during the 19th and 20th centuries have been conservative and dull in comparison to women's. The 196…
Read articleBritish Design at the V&A Shop
Items in the V&A Shop connected with the British Design exhibition.
Fashion in 1960s London
This section explores the development of Sixties fashion from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s, linking it to London's different fashion districts.
An insight into the craftsman's techniques
Techniques and materials from which an object is made allow for the selection of appropriate conservation treatments and a better appreciation of the craftsman's work.
Tales from the 'Coilte'
Production of white quilted furnishings existed in the Middle Ages throughout most of Europe and certainly in France. Refined work with story-telling motifs is associated principally with southern Italy, renowned examples being the two 14th century Tristan quilts in the V&A and in the National Museum of Bargello, Florence.
Into battle: Conservation of a Venetian shield
The treatment of the reverse side of a gilt and glazed leather Venetian parade shield, that was probably made for Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, Prince Bishop of Salzburg (1587-1611) posed numerous problems due to the instability of the leather.
British Design 1948–2012: Innovation in the Modern Age
31 March–12 August 2012
Showcasing over 300 British design objects, this exhibition celebrates the best of British post-war art and design from the 1948 ‘Austerity Games' to the summer of 2012.
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Fishing Basket
Lovely wicker fishing basket with hinged lid, leather clasp and a canvas adjustable strap.
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