Intended as an experiment in developing and demonstrating the potential uses of image databases in university training and research, this project aimed to provide an introduction to the skilled workforce in early modern London and to encourage the use of museum artefact collections in exploring historical questions. Using software developed by the 'Virtual Teaching Collection' consortium based at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge (funded by the Higher Education Funding Council under its 'Teaching and Technology in Further Education' programme), sets of images, with commentaries and captions were supplemented by datasets relating to the industries and crafts of the city. Among the images entered were artefacts, maps, archaeological site plans and contemporary illustrations, documents and text.  The database, which contained over 800 images, is unfortunately no longer available for consultation.

See also the related projects 'The growth of the skilled workforce in London 1500-1750', 'Optical glass and the scientific instrument trade in London before 1750', and 'From craft to industry; London's scientific instrument makers' workshops 1780-1820'.

Report

CMH Annual Report 1995-6.

Project details

Researcher: Michael Berlin, B.A.
Funded by: Renaissance Trust. (1 April-30 November 1996)
Amount Awarded: £25,000