CityLife

Traditionally, wall coverings incorporating precious metals could only be afforded by the wealthy - such luxury was highly desirable. Explore how this desire has been satisfied, both by the real thing and imitations. See 18th century decorated leather, 19th century Japanese and French imitations, foils and other metallic finishes from the 1960s/70s. On show are samples of gold and silver leaf and other metals used in 21st century wall coverings.