Objects

Our renowned collections would not be what they are today without many donations from specialist collectors and members of the public.

We continue to collect objects to develop our existing collections in all of our major subject areas - archaeology, astronomy, geology, natural history, fine art, decorative arts, social history, costume and textiles and military history.

Our curators accept items that are in good condition and which fall into specific categories outlined in our Acquisitions and Disposals policy.

They also look at whether there is accompanying information about the history of the object, whether we are able to provide care and storage for the object and whether or not we already have a similar object in the collection.

Every item offered is carefully considered by our curators. If we do accept the object, it will not necessarily go on permanent display, but will be accessible for research and could appear in temporary exhibitions.

If you would like give an object, please contact the most appropriate curator. Click here to meet our curatorial team.

Click here to read our Acquisitions and Disposals policy.