Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery acquires Bronze Age gold and historic ring

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery in Truro has added two remarkable objects to its collection, thanks to the generosity of supporters and national funding.

The museum has successfully acquired a Bronze Age gold terminal fragment found in St Levan and a gold memento mori ring dating back to 1702 from St Enoder. Both items were secured under the Treasure Act 1996.

The acquisitions were made possible through donations to the museum's Treasure Appeal, alongside support from The Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund and the Art Fund Acquisitions Grant. The items are now in the museum's care and are expected to go on public display this autumn.

Why These Finds Matter

The Treasure Appeal is a ring-fenced fund dedicated to helping the museum purchase significant historical and archaeological finds discovered in Cornwall. With the rise of metal-detecting and the success of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS), discoveries are becoming more frequent, making the fund increasingly important.

Jeni Woolcock, Collections and Engagement Manager at Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery, explained:

"We are regularly offered beautiful and interesting items which have been valued under the PAS, and are currently working to build on our collection of Bronze Age gold in particular."

But Jeni highlighted the challenges faced by regional museums:

"However, regional museums such as ours – which receives no regular funding – find it hard to raise the full amount to buy Treasure finds. This means they sometimes end up with private collectors. Being able to dip into the newly created Treasure Fund means we can be more responsive and competitive."

Public Support Making the Difference

In July, the Treasure Appeal received donations of over £1,200 from museum members and the public, enabling the purchase of the two latest treasures. The appeal remains ongoing, and contributions are still being sought.

Jeni added:

"We have been offered a Bronze Age gold ingot and other amazing gold objects from the same period, which we'd love to be able to display alongside the rest of our ancient gold collection. The target for these items is £2,500 and all donations are gratefully received."

By acquiring these items, the museum ensures they are cared for under Museum Accreditation standards and placed on public display for everyone to enjoy in their historical and regional context.

A Growing Collection

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery already holds more than one million artefacts and artworks, ranging from objects of local significance to items of international interest. Its mission to safeguard Cornwall's treasures has been at the heart of the institution for nearly two centuries.

Located in the heart of Truro, the museum is home to permanent collections as well as a changing programme of exhibitions each year. An Annual Pass costs £10, with free entry for members and under 18s.

• Explore the museum's galleries and collections here

• Discover current exhibitions here