Japanese literature: haiku
Haiku, which evolved out of earlier forms of poetry during the seventeenth century, is one of the best known of Jap…
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Forms of verse: Haiku
Haiku is a very short non-rhyming form in three lines. A strict haiku contains just 17 syllables, divided into line…
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Traditional Japanese pastimes: calligraphy
Ownership of a high quality writing set with tasteful decoration was a sign of status and refinement. …
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Japanese literature: stories and folk tales
Short folk stories are a well-established tradition in Japan. Oral tales were written down during the sixth and seventh centuries and compiled in the early eighth century.
Beatrix Potter: the business of books
Beatrix Potter was very involved in all aspects of the production of her books, from the design of the covers and endpapers to the layout of text and image on the page. Potter was also a merchandising pioneer, taking control of all the 'little side shows' such as toys, board games and puzzles to accompany her books.
Poems about the V&A: 'The British Galleries' by Andrew Motion
In 2001 Andrew Motion, Poet Laureate 1999–2009, wrote a poem commemorating the opening of the V&A's British Galleries.
Poems about the V&A: 'The history of silence' by Nii Parkes
In 2003 the poet Nii Ayikwei Parkes was commissioned to write a series of poems inspired by the V&A's collection.
Poems about the V&A: 'Small things' by Nii Parkes
In 2003 the poet Nii Ayikwei Parkes was commissioned to write a series of poems inspired by the V&A's collection.
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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