Other smaller collections also form part of the Research and Cultural Collections.
University Mace, Philip Webb (1831-1915), Robert Catterson-Smith (1853-unknown), and W. H. Haseler Ltd, 1902
Silver and Plate Collection
The Arts and Crafts University Mace was made in 1900 by Philip Webb, and the Centenary Mace made by Claire Davies as commissioned by the Birmingham Assay Office for the University in 2000. The maces are an essential part of every graduation ceremony and serve as a physical embodiment of the authority of the University.
This ceremonial collection comprises silver and plate objects commissioned for and presented to various departments or schools within the University during the twentieth century.
A selection of the Silver and Plate Collection is on loan to Winterbourne House and Garden.
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Collection
This small collection notably contains objects associated with the Chemistry department's significant research achievements, such as Sir William Tilden's synthesis of rubber and Sir Norman Haworth's synthesis of vitamin C. Otherwise this small collection primarily consists of samples and teaching equipment from the early years of the Chemistry Department and contains medals and honours received by Birmingham chemists, including a replica of the 1937 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Sir Norman Howarth.
For a closer look at key objects related to these achievements, you can explore A History Through Objects: Research and Innovation at the University of Birmingham.
For further collection history, see our Collections Development Policy.