Ipswich Museums
LightNews LightNews
banner
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Ipswich Museums
@ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
3.1K followers 530 following 1.1K posts
From mammoths to masterpieces, we’re wild for history, buzzing about art, and all about adventure! Explore Christchurch Mansion and (in 2026) Ipswich Museum & Ipswich Art Gallery. 🖼️🦣
Posts Replies Media Videos
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Give your eyes a treat! Colour Shape Pattern is packed with bold shapes, vivid colours and playful patterns: ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/colour-shape-pattern
Gallery space with parquet flooring and deep blue walls displaying bold, colourful artworks. On the left, two large panels depict bright yellow birds against green patterned backgrounds, illuminated by green and purple lighting. To the right, a series of modern abstract and figurative pieces in vivid hues line the wall. A glass display case in the centre contains patterned prints and illustrated works. White text reads “COLOUR SHAPE PATTERN” with the Christchurch Mansion logo in the bottom right.
January 5, 2026 at 9:02 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Magritte, Hockney, Delaunay… and a brand new piece by Lily Hammond. They’re all in Colour Shape Pattern. Don’t miss it: ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/colour-shape-pattern
Art gallery wall featuring vibrant modern works, including a green, red, and orange geometric print; a layered orange abstract; a large stylised figure in warm red and beige tones; and further along, bold blue, geometric, and curving multicoloured designs. The pieces are mounted on a deep blue wall above a parquet floor. White text reads “COLOUR SHAPE PATTERN” with the Christchurch Mansion logo in the bottom right.
December 15, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Fancy a splash of colour? Step into Colour Shape Pattern and enjoy bold, bright, feel-good art. On now at Christchurch Mansion: ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/colour-shape-pattern
Gallery wall displaying bold modern artworks, including a blue still life with kitchenware, geometric and abstract designs in red, blue, yellow, and black, and a vibrant multicoloured composition with curved shapes. In the foreground, a glass case holds vividly patterned fabrics in pink, yellow, and black, along with a folded, illustrated concertina book. White text reads “COLOUR SHAPE PATTERN” with the Christchurch Mansion logo in the top right.
December 8, 2025 at 9:01 AM
Reposted by Ipswich Museums
suffolksight.bsky.social
We're taking part in the @ipswichmuseums.bsky.social Christmas Tree Festival at Christchurch Mansion.
Our beautifully decorated tree can be seen until 5th January. We have included some purple braille baubles, and also some doves made out of braille paper in our display.
Photos show our Christmas tree which has a silver and purple theme. The tree is situated in one of the elegant rooms within the mansion. In the back ground you can see three life-sized mannequins as part of the historical exhibit.
November 25, 2025 at 1:19 PM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Bright colours. Big names. Brilliant vibes. Colour Shape Pattern is open at Christchurch Mansion, come see Hockney, Magritte, and more: ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/colour-shape-pattern
Art gallery display with vibrant modern artworks on dark blue walls, including a large yellow bird on a tree branch, bold abstract shapes in bright colours, and a red-toned figure. A glass-topped display case in the foreground contains colourful patterned prints and bird illustrations. Neon green lighting highlights one corner, and white text reads “COLOUR SHAPE PATTERN” with the Christchurch Mansion logo in the bottom right.
December 1, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Fierce, fearless and full of colour, Grace Hartigan (1922–2008) brought raw emotion and electric energy to every canvas she touched. A leading figure of American Abstract Expressionism, Hartigan was one of the few women at the heart of New York’s post-war art scene.
Black and white photograph of a woman in a patterned jumper working in an artist’s studio. She is seen squeezing paint from a tube onto a palette or work surface, with a concentrated expression. The foreground shows a table scattered with numerous paint tubes and brushes, some stored upright in a metal container. Behind her, an abstract painting or mural is partially visible on the wall, contributing to the creative atmosphere of the space. The overall scene captures a moment of focused artistic preparation.
November 24, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
This 18th-century youth is meant to be a graceful little figure holding flowers, but his expression suggests he’s just been told something mildly shocking. The sash and floral base make him look elegant, yet that wide-eyed stare makes it hard not to laugh.
Porcelain figurine of a standing cherubic figure on a circular base decorated with small flowers. The figure is nude except for a flowing turquoise drape that wraps diagonally across the body and hangs over the left arm. Both hands are raised, each holding a delicate flower, and additional blossoms are positioned near the feet. The surface is glossy with soft pastel colours, typical of 18th-century or Rococo-style decorative ceramics. A label beneath the figure reads IPSMG: R.1959-190, indicating a museum catalogue reference.
November 23, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
This portrait shows Charles Vesey of Hintlesham Hall, the eldest of 6 sons. The Vesey family had lived at Hintlesham since the reign of Henry VIII, and Charles inherited the estate. The portrait shows him with long, slightly curly hair and lace at the collar - fashionable details of the late 1600s.
Oval-framed oil portrait depicting a figure with voluminous, reddish-brown curls cascading over the shoulders. The subject wears a richly textured black garment, possibly a cloak or robe, paired with an ornate lace collar featuring intricate scrolling patterns. The background is dark and plain, drawing attention to the detailed rendering of the hair and fabric. The overall composition suggests a formal 17th-century style, emphasising elegance and status through luxurious materials and meticulous detailing.
November 21, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
And here’s how our #ThrowbackThursday photo, Tavern Street, looks today! While the shops may have changed, some of the architectural bones are still there.
Street-level view of a row of commercial buildings in a town centre. The architecture combines older brick façades with modern shopfronts. The central building has a red-brick exterior with white decorative stonework around the windows and cornice, housing businesses with dark blue signage, including The Carphone Warehouse and another store. To the left is a Boots pharmacy with a bright blue sign and a promotional poster in the window. On the right, a banner reading Tower Ramparts hangs from a neighbouring building, and a large clock is mounted on a metal frame above the pavement. A tall streetlamp stands in front of the shops, and the pavement is wide, suggesting a pedestrian-friendly shopping area.
November 20, 2025 at 1:01 PM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Step into 1930s Ipswich for today’s #ThrowbackThursday. This scene features some iconic names, and of course, that striking clock. Overhead wires hint at the trolleybuses, and the Picture House sign draws the eye.

Share your best guesses and we’ll reveal the modern view this afternoon!
Historic black-and-white photograph of a bustling street lined with multi-storey buildings featuring ornate façades and shopfronts. A prominent clock with the name H. Samuel hangs above a jeweller’s entrance, flanked by decorative ironwork. Below, an awning displays the words “STOCKTAKING SALE” in bold lettering. Other visible signs include “HAIR CUTTING” and “THE PICTURE HOUSE,” indicating a cinema further along the street. Additional signage for EAD SIMPSON and VALET can be seen on the right. Overhead, tram wires crisscross the scene, suggesting an early 20th-century urban setting. Several pedestrians in long coats and hats walk along the pavement, adding to the lively atmosphere.
November 20, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
This small bronze dog was found at Charsfield, near Wickham Market. It dates to the Roman period and wears a collar, showing it was likely a domestic pet. Dogs played many roles in Roman life. They were hunters, guards, and companions, but they also symbolised loyalty and protection.
Bronze figurine of a crouching dog, viewed in profile. The sculpture shows the animal with its head slightly raised and mouth open, front legs extended forward, and hind legs bent beneath the body. The surface is smooth but weathered, with visible green patina and small pitted areas indicating age. A subtle collar-like groove encircles the neck, and a small rounded protrusion is present on the back, possibly for attachment or decorative purpose. The overall form is compact and muscular, suggesting strength and symbolic significance, typical of ancient decorative or ritual objects.
November 19, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Ben Nicholson (1894–1982) spent his life distilling the world into lines, textures and shapes. A leading figure in British modernism, Nicholson's art moved from still-lifes and landscapes to stark white reliefs and abstract compositions – but always with a sense of balance, rhythm and restraint.
Oil painting of a young Ben Nicholson shown in three-quarter profile, set against a nearly black background. His face is softly illuminated, highlighting a serious expression with downturned lips and a direct, slightly apprehensive gaze. He has short, dark hair and wears dark clothing that blends into the shadowy surroundings, creating a stark contrast that draws focus to his face. The composition is minimal, with an emphasis on mood and introspection.
November 17, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
This gold and garnet mount shows the upper body of a bird of prey, its beak curving, neck narrowed, and eye once set with a red stone. Thin gold walls created tiny cells for garnet inlays, framed by beaded wire. It likely decorated something high status, from dress fittings to a sword hilt.
A small, damaged early medieval gold mount shaped as a bird of prey in left profile. The piece is crushed and distorted but shows a curving pointed beak, rounded head and narrowed neck. Cloisonné gold walls form tiny cells set with thin red garnet inlays, some missing or crushed. A beaded gold filigree border runs around the edge, visible front and back. Four small circular rivet holes sit near the beak and lower corners, where the mount was once fixed to another surface.
November 16, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Pop by Christchurch Mansion on Tue 18 Nov, 3.30–4pm to meet Sir Tony Robinson. He’ll be signing his new novel, House of Wolf, and copies will be on sale at the event. Come early if you can, say hello, and get your book signed. See you there!
Book cover for “The House of Wolf” by Tony Robinson, featuring a striking design in deep blue and gold tones. The title is displayed in large serif lettering, with the word “Wolf” partially overlaying an illustrated heraldic wolf motif in the background. Above the title, a quote from Dan Jones reads: “A page-turner full of historical intelligence, wit and heart.” Below, the tagline states: “Wessex, 857 AD. On the path to power, nobody can be trusted.” Decorative seals and symbols appear faintly across the cover, adding a sense of medieval intrigue and authenticity. The image shows a person seated against an ornate, weathered wooden backdrop featuring decorative carved panels with faded paint and intricate detailing. The individual is wearing a dark navy button-up shirt with a subtle dotted pattern and has both hands resting together in the foreground, fingers interlaced. The overall composition suggests a formal portrait setting with muted tones and soft lighting that highlights the textures of the background and clothing.
November 15, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Free drop‑in to handle Anglo‑Saxon replicas, chat to specialists and explore objects at Christchurch Mansion on Tue 18 Nov! Sir Tony Robinson will stop by for photos near closing: ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/events/meet-...
The image shows a collection of ornate early medieval jewellery displayed against a deep red background. At the top is a large, circular disc brooch featuring intricate gold filigree and interlaced patterns, with triangular panels and multiple garnet inlays arranged around a central boss. Below it is a row of six pendants, each with unique designs: some are silver with engraved motifs, others are gold with raised geometric patterns, and several incorporate gemstones such as garnets and amethysts. Small green beads and elongated blue stones are positioned between the pendants, suggesting elements of a necklace or decorative set. The craftsmanship and use of precious materials indicate these were high-status items, likely associated with elite burials or ceremonial attire. The image shows two intricately crafted early medieval artefacts displayed against a deep red background. On the left is a pyramidal gold mount with panels decorated in fine interlaced knotwork and a small square gemstone set at the top. The sides feature detailed filigree patterns framed by raised borders. On the right is an elongated, faceted piece with a geometric design of gold strips forming a lattice over red garnet inlays, creating a striking contrast. Both objects exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and are likely high-status fittings or jewellery components, reflecting the wealth and artistry of the period. The image shows a collection of archaeological artefacts displayed against a deep red background. At the centre is a large, circular gold disc decorated with intricate interlaced patterns and a raised central boss, likely a decorative mount or shield fitting. To the left are two elongated fragments with detailed gold filigree designs, possibly parts of a brooch or clasp. Below them is a corroded iron piece with a curved form, suggesting a structural or functional component. On the right, two vivid blue glass fragments with smooth surfaces indicate remnants of a vessel or ornament. At the bottom right is a composite piece featuring gold and garnet inlay, typical of high-status early medieval jewellery. The arrangement highlights craftsmanship and luxury materials associated with elite burials or ceremonial objects. The image shows a collection of corroded metal artefacts arranged against a deep red background. At the centre is a long, narrow belt fitting or strap end with a heavily textured surface and a circular buckle attached. Above it are three smaller rectangular mounts with jagged edges and pierced holes, likely for fastening. Below the main piece is a row of five round studs or decorative mounts, each featuring a raised spiral or rosette design. The objects exhibit greenish patina and surface pitting, indicating age and oxidation, and suggest components of an early medieval belt set or harness fitting.
November 14, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Earlier for #ThrowbackThursday we gave you a glimpse of Currier’s Lane, Ipswich captured in 1934 and facing south toward Princes Street. This small lane was caught between decline and renewal.
Historic black-and-white photograph of Currie’s Lane, Ipswich, taken in 1934. The image shows the south end of the street with Prince Street visible in the distance. In the foreground is a row of brick terraced houses with multiple chimneys and sash windows, including a shopfront with a recessed doorway. Behind the houses stands a large industrial-style building with several stories and a flat roof, likely a factory or warehouse. On the right, part of another brick building with a tiled roof and a wooden fence is visible. Two people are present on the street, one near the shop entrance and another walking past the fence. Handwritten text along the bottom reads: “Currie’s Lane Ipswich 1934. South end with Prince St in distance.” The scene reflects an early 20th-century urban setting with mixed residential and industrial architecture.
November 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Let’s rewind to 1934 for this week’s #ThrowbackThursday!

This now-vanished section of houses on this street once buzzed with life. Look closely and you’ll spot an active demolition site and a brand-new home tucked in the corner.
Here’s a clue: at least one house still stands today.
Historic black-and-white photograph showing a street corner with a row of brick terraced houses in the foreground and a large industrial-style building behind them. The houses have multiple chimneys, sash windows, and a shopfront with a recessed doorway. The taller building in the background features several stories with evenly spaced windows and a flat roof, suggesting a factory or mill. On the right, part of another brick building with a tiled roof is visible, and a wooden fence runs along the pavement. Two people are present on the street, one near the shop entrance and another walking past the fence. The overall scene conveys an early 20th-century urban or industrial setting.
November 13, 2025 at 3:00 PM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Alexander Calder didn’t just create art; he set it in motion. Best known for inventing the mobile, Calder transformed sculpture from something solid and static into a balancing act of colour, shape and air. The result? Art that moves, literally, with a life of its own.
Black and white portrait of a middle-aged man with light-coloured, slightly tousled hair, wearing a striped button-up shirt with the collar open. He has a calm yet serious expression, gazing slightly to the left. The lighting is soft and even, casting minimal shadows against the plain, light-toned background, creating a clean and focused composition.
November 10, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Before mobiles, making a call meant finding a public telephone. Signs like this enamel one told you exactly where you could do it. It wasn’t just convenient - it was essential. People used them to call a taxi, check in with family, or send a quick message before heading home.
Vintage enamel sign with a deep blue background and bold white lettering stating “YOU MAY TELEPHONE FROM HERE.” The word “TELEPHONE” is prominently displayed in a larger font than the surrounding text. The sign shows signs of age, including scratches, worn edges, and a small mounting hole at the top centre. Its design suggests it was used historically to indicate the availability of telephone services in a public or commercial setting.
November 9, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Ever noticed how one tiny detail can do all the talking? In the 1650s, a tulip was the ‘it’ accessory. This portrait of Henrietta Jermyn, later married to Henry Gage in 1655, pairs family coats‑of‑arms with pearls and ringlets to signal status.
Full-length portrait of a figure in an opulent deep blue gown with voluminous folds and silvered highlights, featuring puffed sleeves and a low neckline adorned with a jewel clasp. The figure holds a cluster of pink and red flowers in the right hand, positioned against a stone balustrade with two large columns framing a dark, cloudy sky in the background. On the left side of the balustrade, a coat of arms with crescent moons and a saltire is visible, while an inscription appears on the right, partially legible, referencing lineage and heritage. The overall composition conveys elegance and status, typical of 17th-century aristocratic portraiture.
November 8, 2025 at 9:05 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Few artists captured the fragility of the human condition quite like Alberto Giacometti. Known for his impossibly thin, elongated figures, Giacometti’s art emerged from the trauma and uncertainty of the 20th century.
Black and white photograph of a man with curly hair and glasses sculpting a tall, textured clay figure. He wears a check-patterned jacket over a shirt and tie, and is captured in profile, concentrating intently as he shapes the face of the sculpture with his right hand. The setting appears to be an artist’s studio, with a blurred background featuring tools and artistic materials. Natural light from a window softly illuminates the scene, enhancing the textures of both the man's clothing and the sculpture.
November 7, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Today’s #ThrowbackThursday is the site of The Bucks Horns pub, once tucked away at the corner of Woodhouse Street and Gibson Street; roads that no longer exist. The pub also popped up in records for East Street and Cross Street in the 19th century, but by 1939, it had vanished from listings.
Black and white photo of a quiet street with brick terraced houses, overhead power lines, and a corner pub named “The Bucks Horns.” Children and adults walk along the pavement, and a girl in the foreground eats a snack, dressed in vintage clothes.
November 6, 2025 at 1:02 PM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
It’s #ThrowbackThursday and we have a challenge for you! Any guesses where this photo was taken? Back when little ones played in the street and a trip to The Bucks Horns pub was just around the corner.

These streets no longer exist, but you might know the area if you've studied nearby recently.
Black and white photo of a quiet street with brick terraced houses, overhead power lines, and a corner pub named “The Bucks Horns.” Children and adults walk along the pavement, and a girl in the foreground eats a snack, dressed in vintage clothes.
November 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Window committee update: lion practising welcome face, baboon in the chair, ostrich on lookout. Our diorama crowd is very invested in the builders.
A taxidermy group in a savannah diorama all stare towards a plastic‑sheeted window where building work is happening. From front to back: an ostrich neck in the foreground, a seated lion, a baboon on a stump, a vulture with wings spread, a leopard on a branch, and other animals, all looking expectant. Two taxidermy lion cubs sit on dusty ground beside a glass wall covered in plastic sheeting, peering out as if waiting for the builders to finish.
November 2, 2025 at 9:00 AM
ipswichmuseums.bsky.social
Big smiles at YMCA on 29 October. Young people on our Amplify programme received their AQA Entry Level certificates in discovering local history and art skills. It was the first celebration with this group and we’re already planning more together.
Indoor event scene showing a display table covered with a purple cloth, featuring museum-related items such as a fossil specimen in a white tray, a black box, printed sheets, and a decorative figure. A person in a checked shirt stands behind the table holding a small artefact, possibly explaining its significance to another individual wearing a brown hoodie and patterned trousers. Behind the table, a green banner with bold text reads “Girls Where You At?”, suggesting a programme or initiative. Red-and-white hazard tape is strung across the wooden backdrop, and chairs are visible in the background. Display table covered with a bright pink cloth featuring the bold text “FFS FUTURE” in large white, green, and navy letters. Two tall banners stand behind the table: Left banner: “FFS Future Female Society” in green, pink, and navy. Text explains the organisation’s mission to empower women and build a supportive community. Right banner: “GWYA Girls Where You At?” in green and navy, describing a programme for 12–19-year-olds to build confidence, grow aspirations, and develop skills in areas such as radio, music, performance, and media. On the table are multiple leaflets and cards promoting both initiatives, along with a small upright display stand. Red-and-white hazard tape is visible in the background. Indoor setting featuring a tall green banner with the Jobcentre Plus logo in bright green at the top, a QR code, and the URL gov.uk/jobhelp printed below. In front of the banner, two individuals wearing lanyards stand behind a table covered with a pink cloth. The table displays various printed materials, including leaflets, brochures, and a CV guide sheet arranged neatly. The background includes a wooden door with glass panels and a fenced outdoor area visible through the windows. Indoor event scene showing an Ipswich Museum display table covered with a purple cloth. On the table are various items including a fossil specimen in a white tray, a black box, printed information sheets, and a yellow object resembling a measuring tool or equipment. Behind the table stands a person in a checked shirt engaging with two individuals who are observing the display closely. One visitor wears a bright red sports shirt with a large number “4” on the back, while the other wears a white shirt with black lettering and light grey trousers. The background includes posters on the wall and a wooden panel area.
November 1, 2025 at 9:01 AM