Art and Design Collection

Collection

We hold 58,805 objects of wide-ranging and historic artwork, much of which has national and international significance. Our collection includes some of the earliest acquisitions from 1885, and continues to grow, particularly with representation of locally-made goods.

Please be aware that objects from our collections are not always on public display. 
If you are hoping to view a specific object or collection, please check the ‘Highlights' or 'What to See’ pages on our venue websites for current display information for that venue. Alternatively, feel free to contact us before your visit.

Our collection is made of these categories:

Painting showing a stony-faced man and woman on a ship at sea, leaving the coast behind. The woman holds a small child in a shawl and shelters under an umbrella

British Art

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Religious painting of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus resting, the mother feeds the baby, the father sleeps. A donkey looks over a partially fallen wall in the centre.

European Art

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Silver container shaped like half an egg, ornately decorated with four claw feet and two handles

British Decorative Art and Design

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Round, ceramic plate with painting depicting a scene from Greek mythology of the Seige of Troy

European Decorative Art and Design

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Very ornate wooden carved cup with 3D flowers, the lid has a dragon on the top

Folk Art

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Full-face helmet from Japanese suit of armour

World Art

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Robe-type garment, wrap over and button fastening at the front, made of pieces of scrap fabric

Dress and Textiles

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