From the collection ·
5 treasures to explore, each with a place in the collection, accompanied by the story One More Dance.
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Featured treasure
Struck in 1896, this bronze penny carries Queen Victoria’s late “Veiled Head” portrait and Britannia seated with her trident and shield. Heavy wear has softened both designs, while patches of brown and blue-green color spread across the surfaces. The remaining detail and varied tones make it an interesting study for this week’s exploration of patina.
Featured treasure
“P” for patina. Whatever this small brass letter originally stood for, here it introduces the colors and textures of our showcase. Fine brown markings scatter across its golden surface, giving a simple shape an intricate finish. Its original meaning remains a question, but there is plenty to discover in the detail.
Featured treasure
Light catches the highest points of this cavalry button, tracing the crown, lettering, and spreading rays of the star. Darker tones gather between them, bringing depth to a design only an inch across. In this study of patina, the smallest recesses hold as much interest as the brightest highlights.
Featured treasure
The quieter side deserves a closer look. Turn this button over and warm and cool tones surround a dark attachment loop, with the maker’s lettering pressed into the metal. Usually hidden against cloth, the back becomes a small study of surface, construction, and contrast, an invitation to explore an object from every side.
Featured treasure
Glasgow’s old stories travel together on this little locket. Its bird, tree, bell, and fish recall the traditions of St Mungo: a robin restored to life, a branch kindled into flame, a sacred bell, and a lost ring recovered from a salmon.
Time has left the surrounding metal mottled and the enamel chipped, yet the blue “GLASGOW” scroll still names the place it commemorates. The scratched numbers on the back hold a less familiar story. Their meaning is uncertain, leaving a personal mystery beside the city’s enduring legends.
Showcase 04
Returning to Glasgow after the First World War, Peter struggles with nightmares and the loss of his brother, Will. A fresh start in London with Sam brings steady work, music and the promise of a shared future. Through treasured keepsakes and ordinary moments of affection, One More Dance follows a young couple learning to carry the past while making room for joy.
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