Collection Categories
Sections by Object Type
Jean Shields, Peggy Woodrow, their lives, and their collections
Interpreting their stories from objects
The Laidlaw sisters were prolific collectors of Victorian housewares, particularly glassware and ceramics, in the mid-to late 20th century.
Explore their collections to gain a glimpse into the culture of collecting. The Laidlaw sisters’ collections are categorized by object type.
Pick and choose sections that interest you – or click “Biography” to view the exhibit in order.
Clear Glass
Goblets and tableware from the United States and Canada.
Solitary and social collecting
Red Glass
Ruby, cranberry, and Mary Gregory glass.
Collecting one colour
Willow
Blue Willow and Gaudy Willow ceramics from 19th century England.
Ceramics collecting and chinoiserie
Gaudy Welsh
Hand-painted ceramics from 1820s-1860s Britain.
Colourful collections
Eyeglasses
Eyewear from the 1800s and early 1900s.
Collaborative and commemoratory collecting
Staffordshire Figurines
Ceramic figurines from Staffordshire, England, 1837-1901.
Collecting cuteness
Our Favourite Items
Salt Shaker
Salt shaker with Blue Willow pattern and cork stopper. England, c. 1880s.
Candy Dish
Cranberry candy dishes with clear glass stems and bases, c. 1860s.
Goddess Diana
Marble bust of the goddess Diana. Italy, c. 1850.