Two Easter eggs carrying previously unpublished poetry by celebrated Orcadian writer George Mackay Brown are among the remarkable objects taking centre stage in a new exhibition at Orkney Museum.
The exhibition, called Recent Acquisitions, is open at the museum in Kirkwall until Saturday 31 October, bringing together an intriguing collection of historical artefacts, artworks, photographs and everyday objects acquired in recent years.
Among the most unusual exhibits are two Easter eggs inscribed by George Mackay Brown with haiku, the short poetic form traditionally associated with Japan.
The discovery offers another glimpse into the creative world of one of Orkney’s most cherished literary figures, whose writing captured the islands’ history, people and traditions.
Visitors will also find two painted leather footballs from Ashbourne’s Royal Shrovetide Football, presented to Orkney in recognition of the Kirkwall Ba.
The gifts celebrate the connection between two communities whose distinctive traditional football games have survived through generations.
While the footballs might appear unusual alongside archaeological discoveries and historic photographs, they demonstrate how traditions can connect communities separated by considerable distances.
Elsewhere, the exhibition includes objects that reveal something of everyday life in Orkney across the centuries.
Some tell stories of exceptional people or significant events, while others preserve smaller details of ordinary lives that might otherwise disappear from the historical record.
The objects have entered the museum’s collections through donations, purchases and archaeological discoveries allocated under Scotland’s Treasure Trove system.
Some have been preserved by local families, while others were created by Orcadian artists and craftspeople or recovered during archaeological investigations.
Together, they demonstrate how the museum’s collection continues to develop as new discoveries are made and objects are entrusted to its care.
Ellen Pesci, Social History Curator at Orkney Museum, said:
“Museums are about much more than objects.
“They’re about the people who made, used and treasured them.
“Every item in this exhibition has a story, and many of them are here because local families and communities chose to entrust them with us.
“We’re grateful to everyone who has helped develop the collection, and we’re delighted to be able to put these objects on display.”
The museum holds its collections on behalf of the people of Orkney, preserving them for future generations while researching and sharing the stories behind them.
However, the sheer volume of material means that not every object can be displayed permanently.
Staff are continuing to digitise the collection, allowing more people to explore Orkney’s heritage without necessarily visiting the museum in person.
Objects held in storage can also be made available to view on request.
Ellen added:
“Space means we can’t display everything, but every object in the collection is cared for and valued.
“If there’s something you’d like to see, just ask and we’ll do our best to arrange it.
“Orkney’s story is still unfolding, and new discoveries, generous gifts and ongoing research keep adding to our understanding of the islands.”
The exhibition provides an opportunity to discover some of the objects that have recently found a permanent home in Orkney’s public collection.
From unpublished poetry to the traditions of the Ba, each addition helps preserve another piece of the islands’ extraordinary story.
Recent Acquisitions remains open at Orkney Museum until 31 October 2026.
