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What is the Georgian Era (1714–1830)?

The Georgian era refers to the reigns of Kings George I through George IV, a period in which architecture and furniture based on classicism flourished. In the BAM silver collection, visitors can trace the evolution of design from the Georgian to the Victorian period. The room also includes gentlemanly artifacts such as antique wooden shoe lasts from John Lobb — a Royal Warrant holder — representing the refined lifestyle of British gentlemen. Musical instruments such as harps and guitars, which reflect the musical culture of the time, are also displayed, evoking the elegant atmosphere of 18th-century Britain. At BAM, guests can experience the aesthetics and daily life of Georgian England through silverware, furniture, instruments, and more.

- Silver & Tea -

The Georgian period marked the flourishing of Britain’s silverware culture. At BAM, visitors can explore silver pieces that once adorned tea gatherings and formal dinners, tracing the evolution of design from the Georgian era to the Victorian era. Items such as tea urns, spirit kettles, and tea caddies symbolize the spread of tea culture. Epergnes and candlesticks added grandeur to interior spaces, elevating the atmosphere of the home. Additionally, biscuit warmers and afternoon-tea stands — essential for serving warm pastries — are displayed in various styles, showcasing the diversity of Georgian silver craftsmanship.

- Musical Instrument -

During the Georgian period, music became an essential part of salon gatherings and domestic life, symbolizing both culture and social refinement. At BAM Kamakura, visitors can experience this atmosphere through rare musical instruments. The harp on display — crafted in 1820 by the renowned Erard workshop, which relocated to London during the French Revolution — is a masterpiece of the era. The guitar, made around 1775 by Thompson, reflects the instrument’s popularity among the British upper class in the 18th century. Harps, in particular, were admired as symbols of feminine accomplishment and elegance.

- Antique Furniture-

Furniture of the Georgian period developed under the influence of Neoclassicism and is often referred to as the “Golden Age of English Furniture.” This era saw the rise of celebrated designers such as Thomas Chippendale and George Hepplewhite, whose work introduced a wide variety of refined styles. At BAM Kamakura, visitors can view an exquisite Chippendale chair known for its delicate carving and elegant craftsmanship. The stately grandfather clock on display — an essential feature of 18th-century British homes — added dignity and sophistication to daily life. Through these pieces, guests can experience the artistry and design sensibilities that defined Georgian-era interior culture.

- Gentleman’s Articles-

At BAM, visitors can explore exhibits that reflect the lifestyle and refinedsensibilities of gentlemen from the Georgian era. Among the highlights is a remarkable collection of 100 wooden shoe lastsdonated specially by **John Lobb London**, the renowned royal warrant–holding shoemaker. Displayed in a recreated underground storage room—normally closed to the public— these lasts are accompanied by craftsmen’s tools, offering insight intothe tradition of bespoke shoemaking. The uniforms of the Foot Guards, along with the iconic bearskin caps,symbolize long-standing royal traditions. Leather trunks and wingback chairs evoke the elegance of travel and sociallife enjoyed by gentlemen of the period. Through these exhibits, guests are invited to immerse themselves in theheritage of British gentlemen—an enduring symbol of dignity, craftsmanship, and aesthetic refinement.

Director of BAM Kamakura, Masaomi Dobashi
Director: Masaomi Dobashi

I am Dobashi, Director of BAM Kamakura. The highlight of the Georgian Room on the second floor is the evolution of silverware design. A wide variety of pieces—from tea kettles and candlesticks to afternoon tea stands—are displayed, offering a panoramic view of how designs shifted from the Georgian to the Victorian era.You will also find chairs crafted by renowned masters such as Chippendale, as well as an imposing grandfather clock that once brought dignity and refinement to 18th-century British homes.In addition, BAM showcases a special collection of 100 wooden shoe lasts donated by the Royal Warrant shoemaker John Lobb London. These are displayed in a recreated underground storage room, allowing visitors to experience the world of traditional craftsmanship. Together with uniforms of the Queen’s Guards and classic travel trunks, the exhibits capture the symbolic elegance and aesthetic values of gentlemen of the era. We invite you to experience the refined beauty and spirit of 18th-century Britain here in Kamakura.

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