Collections
The Museum of Gloucester is home to an immense collection of archaeological treasures including the world-famous Birdlip Mirror, impressive Roman tombstones and the Gloucester Tables Set, the oldest complete backgammon set in the world.
For collections enquires, please contact us.
3D model of Roman Venus Figurine (© Cotswold Archeology)
3D film of Roman ‘Venus’ figurine
This wonderful item dates to 1st or 2nd century AD, so is around 1800-1900 years old. The statuatte depicts the goddess Venus and is made of pipeclay, which were made in Gaul. It was found in a Roman rubbish pit that was part of a large suburb just outside the city walls. It’s completeness is what makes it rare, as often they were deliberately broken for healing or magic rituals.
Learn more.
Take a look at some of the other Roman artefacts in our collection below.
Watch Andy Armstrong, City Archaeologist talk about this important item…
Adopt An Object
You can adopt one of an eclectic range of objects from our collection – from a 19th century Gloucester rugby cap to a statue of the goddess Venus – each with their own fascinating story to discover. For your donation you can enjoy exclusive benefits, including a private tour of the museums collections.
Unleash your inner historian by adopting the legendary sword of King Richard III.
As an adopter, you will have the opportunity to dive deep into the storied past of this medieval weapon. This sword is likely to be Richard III's own personal sword, given to the Mayor of Gloucester during a visit to the city in 1483. You can find this sword on display within the ‘medieval gallery’ in the Museum of Gloucester.
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Please note; our museum objects may be removed from display without notice for essential collections work.
Adoption certificates and adoption level benefits will be emailed up to 1 working day after purchase.
Dive into the ancient world by adopting the Tabula Game Set!
This ancient Roman game is more than just a relic; it’s a journey into the past. The Gloucester tabula set is the earliest surviving board and complete set of counters for the game tabula, a tables game and possible predecessor of backgammon. This fascinating object made of carved bone is now on display in the museum.
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Please note; our museum objects may be removed from display without notice for essential collections work.
Adoption certificates and adoption level benefits will be emailed up to 1 working day after purchase.
Adopt this timeless treasure today!
This stunning piece of art represents not just the elegance of classical sculpture but the timeless allure of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. This wonderful item in the museum’s collection dates to 1st or 2nd century AD, so is around 1800-1900 years old!
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Please note; our museum objects may be removed from display without notice for essential collections work.
Adoption certificates and adoption level benefits will be emailed up to 1 working day after purchase.