Christmas Delights at the National Art Library

Discover Christmas treasures including the first ever Christmas card in this festive visit to the National Art Library

+44 (0)20 7942 2000
  • V&A South Kensington

    Cromwell Road
    London, SW7 2RL

  • NAL Centre Room

  • For Members

  • Tickets cost £25.00

    Includes refreshments.

Past Event
Christmas Delights at the National Art Library photo

Journey back through book publishing history at the most magical time of the year. Hear the stories behind rare and unique items from the National Art Library’s collections, witnessing how the Christmas market has developed since Victorian times. Join us on a behind-the-scenes tour, focussing on the library’s history since Victorian times. See Dickens’ material from the Library’s historic Forster collection, a Victorian gift book, the first ever Christmas card and a Christmas carol transcribed by the ‘Father of modern calligraphy’ Edward Johnston. Join us afterwards in the Members’ Room for mulled wine and mince pies to put you in the festive spirit.

Header image: Illustrated London News, December 1848, © Victoria and Albert Museum, London