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The collection of Wolverhampton Arts and Museum dates back to the opening of the gallery in 1884. Because of the age of the collection it is quite diverse. Many of the older decorative arts pieces were donated to the gallery during Victorian times and in the early 20th Century from local leading families. The Service has a wonderful collection of Persian and Indian artefacts, Sikh ceremonial swords as well as paintings and works on paper. When looking at the depth of the collections it is interesting to note the variety. From the older ceramic objects there are a collection of bowls and plates that have written interpretation pasted to the bottom of them. These interpretations were most probably written when they first entered the gallery. They are a prime example of the way the British categorised other nations. These were donated in 1890, a time of travel throughout the Empire by the British.
Indian earthenware bowls and cups c. 1890’s
There are also fine examples of richly ornate pieces that show the high craftsmanship of Asian artisans.
Persian spoon Elkington electroplate copy Original is in the V&A and is made of copper C.1870s
Indian wooden wall hanging shrine C.1705
Looking at these objects and juxtaposition with each much can be learnt from the way collections were built up, the old view of other cultures and beliefs as well as understanding the skill of what has been made.
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