This display in the Victoria and Albert Museum focuses on a theme that is captivating to both children and adults alike: fairy tales. Some variant of fairy or folk tale exists in all cultures. Their tradition is rooted in mythology; their purpose to divert, instruct and caution. Employing equal measures of fact and fiction, tales of magic and enchantment make compelling subjects for the decorative arts. A selection of objects from around the world and across several centuries will demonstrate the hold that fairy tales and magic have on our collective imaginations. The majority of these objects have not been displayed before and include both well-known subjects and those that may be less familiar. The display provides an opportunity to explore both the origins of fairy tales, in folk lore and legend, and also the darker side to their purpose: cautionary advice and superstition.
