Objects in focus
Stolen bronze tortoises recovered
Four bronze tortoises stolen from Kingston Lacy, Dorset, nearly 30 years ago have finally returned home. These unique sculptures were commissioned in 1853 by collector William John Bankes, who loved tortoises.
The first national atlas
The cartographer Christopher Saxton spent years surveying England and Wales to produce the first national atlas in 1579. He was supported by Queen Elizabeth I, whose portrait appears on the frontispiece. Anglesey Abbey, Cambridgeshire.
A rare Roman antiquity
This remarkable sculpture is unique, and little is known about its history. It was purchased by Robert Clive of India during his grand tour in Rome and was considered to be an antique Roman sculpture. Powis Castle, Powys.
A portrait with a story
For decades, Mary Garnett (1724–1809) served as housekeeper at Kedleston Hall until her death at the age of 85. Dressed here in a black bonnet, she is shown as a loyal and trusted employee. Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire.
Box decorated with raised embroidery
This 17th-century box was embroidered in expensive silver and gilt threads by a young woman named Hannah Trapham. Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire.
Capturing the ‘ghost ship’
In 1939 Mercie Lack photographed the site of Sutton Hoo, which contained the multiple burial mounds of an East Anglian royal dynasty. Sutton Hoo, Suffolk.
20th-century modernism
This simple and stylish magazine table reflects the whole design of the house known as The Homewood, created by the architect Patrick Gwynne (1913–2003) for his parents in 1938. The Homewood, Surrey.
Protect the buildings and collections in our care
We're committed to protecting and preserving our nation’s great houses and other historical buildings, as well as the arts and collections in our care. Give today and together, we can ensure our shared history continues to inspire us all.
