The Canadian Museum of History opens a virtual door to early Canadian homes

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

Gatineau, Quebec, May 26, 2015 — The Canadian Museum of History is proud to present the new online exhibition, The Harbinson Collection – A Passion for Canadian Furniture and Decorative Arts. This meticulously researched online exhibition, shared with the public for the first time, celebrates a lifetime of collecting by John and Heather Harbinson.

One of Canada’s premier collections of furniture and decorative arts, acquired by the Museum of History in 2007, is getting a public viewing. The online exhibition features more than 150 pieces from the more than 350 items in the Harbinson Collection. Online visitors will be able to browse images of furniture, textiles, earthenware, paintings and sculpture at their own pace. The many photographs and descriptions in the virtual exhibition allow visitors to see details otherwise hidden from view, such as manufacturing labels and production techniques.

“This exceptional collection of furniture and art offers a unique window into everyday life,” says Jean-Marc Blais, Director General of the Canadian Museum of History. “After spending a lifetime gathering these wonderful pieces, the Harbinsons chose to share their collection with the people of Canada. This new online exhibition allows us to showcase this rich legacy to people across the country and around the world.”

Early Canadian settlers produced a wide range of household objects, reflecting regional tastes, materials and manufacturing methods. The Harbinsons understood from the beginning that these objects offered insight into what was important to Canadians in the past. From blankets made for the trousseaus of Welland County brides to tables used in the Halifax homes of Loyalist families, finely crafted Canadian products reflect this country’s roots.

The tastes of early Canadians in Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes often mirrored prevailing styles from their homelands, such as the British Isles, France and other parts of Europe. As the North American colonies matured, homegrown preferences emerged, leading to unique regional styles and materials.

In addition to providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early settlers from Europe, this exhibition, now available at historymuseum.ca/harbinson is also an exceptional resource for collectors, researchers and students.

The Harbinson Collection – A Passion for Canadian Furniture and Decorative Arts was created by the Canadian Museum of History, with the generous support of John and Heather Harbinson.

Located on the shores of the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, the Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s largest and most popular cultural institution, attracting over 1.2 million visitors each year. The Museum’s principal role is to enhance Canadians’ knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped Canada’s history and identity, as well as to enhance Canadians’ awareness of world history and culture.

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