The Bomford collection consists of 215 items of Roman and pre-Roman glass acquired in 1977 and 1978 by Bristol Museum and Art Gallery with the assistance of the Art Fund and a series of national and local initiatives at a very favourable price.
Previously, Bristol had a large collection of English and Chinese glasses but virtually nothing antique. Bomford who had started its collection of ancient glasses in 1960 as he was fascinated by its 'delicacy and fairy-like quality'.
Bomford had written 'How could anything so fragile still be in existence after being buried under the earth for such a long time.' Bomford had placed the collection on loan to the Bristol museum from 1974.
More information
Date supported
1978
Medium and material
Glass
Grant
2500
Total cost
64800

Get a National Art Pass and explore Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
10% off in shop
Enjoy 10% off in the shop with the National Art Pass
Expires: 1 Jan 2026
Art Funded by you FAQs
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.