Collections Items on Display
The must-see collection items displayed at Shakespeare's Birthplace
Boarded Chest
This late 16th century oak boarded chest is decorated with a striking lattice pattern of scratched lines. This sort of decoration was fairly common on lower status furniture as it was cheaper and easier than carving or inlay. Though it dates from around 1550, the hinges and lock have been replaced later, implying it was used to hold something valuable at some point in its life.
You can find this item in the Birthroom.
To learn more, read about this item in our online catalogue: 1994-73 – Boarded Chest
Cooking Pot
This cooking pot is an excellent example of a kitchen utensil that would have been used during Shakespeare’s lifetime. Made of bronze with three legs and a handle, this kind of pot would have been used to heat food by placing it over a fire. You can find this in the kitchen at Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
You can find this item in the Kitchen Storeroom.
To learn more, read about this item in our online catalogue: 1996-11 – Cooking Pot
Oak Cradle
This oak cradle of early 16th century design was probably of 17th century manufacture. It is entirely possible that John and Mary Shakespeare had a cradle such as this to use in the upbringing of their children. As you would expect, you can see this cradle in-situ in the Birthroom at Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
You can find this item in the Birthroom.
To learn more, read about this item in our online catalogue: 2006-17 – Oak Cradle
Falcon Inn Chair
This is the Falcon Inn chair, also called the Bidford chair, that can be seen on visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Shakespeare reputedly sat in this chair whilst taking part in a drinking competition at the old Falcon Inn, Bidford-on-Avon. The story goes that Shakespeare fell asleep under a crab tree on his way home.
You can find this item in the Exhibition Room.
To learn more, read about this item in our online catalogue: 1865-5 – Falcon Inn Chair
Boarded Stool
This simple piece of oak wood furniture was made between 1540 and 1560. Board stools were constructed of squared or shaped boards that were nailed or pegged together. They would have been cheaper and less robust than furniture which made use of joinery techniques. Though they were simple in design, it was common for boarded stools to have some decoration, usually carved into the legs or side panels (aprons).
You can find this item in the Hall.
To learn more, read about this item in our online catalogue: 1999-21 - Boarded Stool
Go behind the scenes
Collections Blog
Go behind the scenes
Learn the story
Shakespeare's Birthplace
Learn the story
Access our collections online
Online Catalogue
Access our collections online