Discover 15 extraordinary gifts from museum shops globally that are perfect for art lovers this holiday season. From ancient seeds to whimsical ornaments, these selections offer something for everyone.
Snake Embroidered Brooch Inspired by Cartier
– Where: Victoria and Albert Museum, London
– Why It’s Special: This finely crafted brooch, inspired by Cartier, is an affordable luxury. Crafted by Hand and Lock, it pays tribute to a historic Cartier exhibition. With its detailed embroidery and silvery scales, it’s a festive accessory. Price: £80 ($105)
Souls in Purgatory Magnet
– Where: Morgan Library & Museum, New York
– Why It’s Special: This magnet, inspired by a Medieval Book of Hours, features a dramatic scene that makes for an intriguing stocking stuffer. It serves as a memento of life’s transient nature. Price: $5.50
Khous Fan
– Where: Al Ain Museum, Abu Dhabi
– Why It’s Special: Crafted by Emirati artisans, this palm-leaf fan is both practical and stylish. It highlights traditional khous weaving, perfect for staying cool in warm climates. Price: AED 240 ($65)
A Gilded Sewing Kit
– Where: Neue Galerie, New York
– Why It’s Special: This luxurious sewing kit, featuring gold-plated tools, adds a touch of elegance to any sewing project. Inspired by Gustav Klimt’s famous “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” it’s a refined gift for craft enthusiasts. Price: $68
Hanne Darboven CD
– Where: The Dia Art Foundation’s Online Shop
– Why It’s Special: Featuring “Opus 17A” by Hanne Darboven, this CD captures a unique musical experience. Performed by Robert Black, the composition offers a meditative listening journey. Price: $20
400-Year-Old Seeds
– Where: Suzhou Museum, China
– Why It’s Special: These Wen Vine seeds originate from a historic wisteria plant. Harvested by Suzhou Museum, they are both a unique souvenir and a living piece of history. Price: RMB 89 Yuan ($12.52)
New York City Felt Ornaments
– Where: MoMA Design Store
– Why It’s Special: This set of 24 ornaments captures iconic NYC symbols in a fun, unbreakable format. Ideal for collectors or as a unique gift, these decorations bring a piece of the city home. Price: $188 for a set of 24
Birds of Paradise Quilt Tote
– Where: American Folk Art Museum, New York
– Why It’s Special: Featuring a design from the museum’s quilt collection, this sturdy canvas tote is practical and stylish. It’s perfect for carrying everyday essentials. Price: $45
Dragonfly Miniature Lamp
– Where: The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, Orlando
– Why It’s Special: This mini version of a Tiffany dragonfly lamp brings exquisite design into your home. Perfect for collectors or as a tree ornament, it celebrates Clara Driscoll’s iconic work. Price: $48.95
William Ornament
– Where: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
– Why It’s Special: This hand-painted glass ornament of the Met’s beloved hippo mascot, William, adds a touch of ancient Egyptian charm to your holiday decor. Price: $29.95
Bode x Calder Foundation Shirt
– Where: The Whitney, New York
– Why It’s Special: Celebrating Calder’s Circus, this exclusive Bode-designed shirt combines art and fashion in a unique, hand-crafted garment. Price: $1,200
Women Artists Wooden Doll Set
– Where: National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C.
– Why It’s Special: Featuring influential women artists, these hand-painted dolls are both decorative and educational, crafted sustainably. Price: $42
Linder Tablecloth
– Where: House of Voltaire, London
– Why It’s Special: This tablecloth, adorned with Linder’s bold photomontage, brings a playful edge to any dining setting. Price: £100 ($130)
Catherine Opie Playing Cards
– Where: MOCA, Los Angeles
– Why It’s Special: Catherine Opie’s reissued “Dyke Deck” celebrates queer identity with style and humor, offering a fresh take on a classic card game. Price: $19.95-$74.95
Museum Exclusive Socks
– Various Locations
– Why It’s Special: These socks, featuring designs from museums like MoMA and the Met, add artistic flair to a wardrobe staple, perfect for the art enthusiast in your life. Prices vary from $13.95 to $38
These museum shop treasures offer unique keepsakes that celebrate art, history, and craftsmanship. Whether for gifting or personal enjoyment, each item tells a story worth sharing this holiday season.
