Item of the Month

In an age before email, podcasts, or global digital streaming, one of the most thrilling ways to connect across continents was through the crackle and hum of shortwave radio. These small-scale global connections were confirmed and commemorated through colourful, distinctive items known as QSL cards—radio’s version of a handshake. For the hobbyist—known in radio circles…

Jeremiah James Colman was born in 1830 a few miles from the city of Norwich, the county town of Norfolk. After his father’s death, in the 1850s, he took the helm of J. & J. Colman a business producing mustard, starch, cornflour and other products. By the time of his death in 1898 he had…

In early Victorian England, the ballroom was a stage for courtship, social interactions, and the display of refinement. Balls and dance events were a highlight of the social calendar, especially for the upper and aspiring middle classes, who sought to establish connections and secure advantageous marriages. These gatherings ranged from grand assemblies in aristocratic townhouses…

This Indenture Witnesseth, That John Wood son of Richard Wood late of Honey Lane Market Fishmonger deceased doth put himself Apprentice to Nathaniel Saunders Citizen and Fishmonger of London by trade a Fishmonger and living in Upper Thames Street Letterpress and manuscript, cut “indentwise”, printed on vellum 203 x 203mm (8 x 8in) · Dated…

The Ball at the Mansion House, April 17, 1775. Print made by Francesco Bartolozzi after Giovanni Battista Cipriani. Francesco Bartolozzi (1727-1815) was an eminent Italian engraver whose artistic contributions significantly influenced the 18th-century art scene. Born in Florence, he initially trained under the painter and engraver Giovanni Domenico Ferretti and later under the master engraver…

As we waddle through the wintry corridors of history, one feathered fellow has strutted its way into our hearts and onto our festive tables—the noble turkey. As the jingle bells start their merry chime and the aroma of roasted delights fills the air, it’s time to delve into the culinary heritage of our beloved Christmas…

The enchanting allure of 19th century private theatricals! Picture a time when families found joy in the simplicity of parlour games, needlework, playing piano and poetry readings. Yet, amidst the cosy rituals of the era, there emerged a thrilling pastime: the art of staging plays. Imagine the excitement that must have filled the air as…

The Old File that will come at Christmas Victorian Christmas card published by Charles Goodall & Son, circa 1860s Amidst the winter’s glistening snow, the much put upon Victorian tradesman ventures forth wrapped in his warmest scarf, armed not with a sword but a bill spike, ready to conquer a different kind of foe –…

This new series of copy-books has been specially planned to lighten the labour of the teacher, and ensure the easy progress of the pupil in the formation of a beautiful, distinct, and rapid handwriting. The style is flowing and graceful and a uniform character is maintained. Copy books were an essential tool in the education…

Printed document with manuscript additions Nizza [Nice] to Agde [Southern France] Transporting Lavender and Garlic waters 1782 197 x 146mm (7¾ x 5¾in) The Bill of Lading has been an essential document in international trade for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Mediterranean seafaring civilisations such as the Phoenicians, who used a…