The Museum of Ayrshire Country Life and Costume
Exhibition of Rare Japanese and Chinese Robes Revealed
Rob Ferguson
The Museum of Ayrshire Country Life and Costume is housed in an historic grain mill constructed in 1622 on the banks of the River Garnock. The beautifully restored buildings offer visitors a chance to step into the past. The granaries on three floors house exhibits illuminating the lives of the past community farmers, other residents of the village and those living in the countryside. The collection comprises of farming implements, tradesmen’s tools and everyday household objects revealing the lives of ordinary Ayrshire people. Detailed room settings representing the Victorian era bring a sense of authenticity to visitors.
The Museum’s Costume Collection of around 3500 pieces may be most accurately described as Dress and Textiles. As well as women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, they have quilts, tablecloths, bedcovers, Ayrshire blankets, machine-made lace from Darvel, and of course Ayrshire embroidery or ‘floorin’, as it was known. The collection is acknowledged as one of Scotland’s finest with over 3,500 items dating from 1775 to present day, with highlights rotated for display in themed exhibitions.
The current exhibition, ‘Treasures of the Orient’, is a must-see for anyone with an appreciation for textile artistry and craftsmanship. It provides a rare opportunity to see the intricate and graceful world of Japanese and Chinese robes and kimonos together with a variety of accessories. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship behind traditional Oriental clothing and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage. In a world where clothing often serves as a fleeting expression of personal style, the ‘Treasures of the Orient’ exhibition offers the visitor the chance to appreciate the lasting legacy of traditional attire.
The exhibition’s centrepiece dating from the eighteenth century, is an exquisite collection of Chinese imperial silk embroidered robes including an Imperial Dragon robe. These were donated by a descendent of missionaries who were in China at the time of the Boxer Rebellion and who rescued the costumes from certain destruction.
A selection of embroidered silk kimonos is also featured. Their designs depict the natural environment with birds and flowers which have significant meanings in Japanese culture. The sheer artistry and detail of the garments is breathtaking.
A selection of ‘Theatre’ coats, one from 1920’s Paris, demonstrates the influence that Oriental style had on the fashion designers of the Art Deco period. The Museum has woven together the oriental costume collection and historical artifacts to create a truly immersive and educational experience. It is a testament to the power of objects to transport us through time and connect us with the lives of those who came before us.
Whatever you do, don’t leave the building without stopping at the Miller’s Tearoom for some fabulous home baking!
The ‘Treasures of the Orient’ exhibition runs until the end of May and is followed in June by a collection of military uniforms and fashions from the 1930/40s. This is part of the commemoration of VE and VJ Day 80th anniversary this year. Our upstairs gallery will have an exhibition of Ayrshire embroidery and whitework, including baby gowns and womenswear.
For further information please visit www.dalgarvenmill.org.uk
