Highlights in this issue
Computer art at the V&A
The arrival of the computer into both the creative process and the creative industries is perhaps one of the most culturally significant developments of the last century. The V&A has been collecting computer art since the 1960s. In recent times, it has acquired two significant collections of computer-generated art and design, which form the basis of the UK's national collection.
News from the past: Oral history at the V&A
Drawing on a recording undertaken as part of the V&A Oral History project with former Deputy Keeper Barbara Morris, this paper explores oral history as a research methodology that contributes to the meaning and understanding of the V&A through the personal stories of its curators.
Tales from the 'Coilte'
Production of white quilted furnishings existed in the Middle Ages throughout most of Europe and certainly in France. Refined work with story-telling motifs is associated principally with southern Italy, renowned examples being the two 14th century Tristan quilts in the V&A and in the National Museum of Bargello, Florence.
Manchu horse-hoof shoes: Footwear and cultural identity
The Qing dynasty (1644-1911), the last empire in Chinese history, was ruled by the Manchus, a nomadic group that came from the north. Much of what we know today as Chinese material culture developed during this period.
Issue No. 2 Autumn 2009
- Editorial
- Computer art at the V&A
- News from the past: Oral history at the V&A
- Tales from the 'Coilte'
- Tea Parties at the Museum - The collector J H Fitzhenry and his relationship with the V&A
- Manchu horse-hoof shoes: Footwear and cultural identity
- A silver-gilt cup commemorating the coronation of James II and the culture of gifts and prerequisites in Stuart and Hanoverian coronations
- Filling a Gap: Recent acquisitions of turned wood at the V&A
- Review: The Children's Book by A S Byatt