The Victoria and Albert Museum at Work
Where else in London could you find a Renaissance bronze and a Zandra Rhodes punk dress under the same roof? Or be able to find out the age of a carpet, or how to build a harpsichord?
The V&A has always gloried in its variety. Whether you're interested in ceramics, in metalwork or in furniture, there are superb examples to see. You can consult books in the National Arts Library, eat your sandwiches in the peace of the tree-lined Quadrangle, and then visit one of the special exhibitions.
You can take the children to the Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green - dressing-up allowed, or imagine yourself back in the 17th century at Ham House in Richmond.
The V&A is one of the world's great museums, and its staff have the responsibility of caring for treasures beyond price. Tonight's film shows something of the work they do.
Film cameramen johr adderley
PHILIP BONHAM-CARTER , KENNETH MACMILLAN Film editors KATE RIVERS ,STEPHEN EVANS Producer JULIA matheson