Sixty Second Interview with V & A Museum Curator – Dr Heike Zech

Museum Curator, Dr Heike Zech, talks about her role as guardian of the fabulously opulent Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert collection, which has been housed at the V & A Museum since 2008.

The collection which was donated to the nation in 1996 by Sir Arthur, focuses on delicate enamel miniatures and ornately decorated gold boxes and works of art crafted in precious and semi precious materials.

What’s the best thing about your job?
There’s something new every day – incredible masterpieces and wonderfully enthusiastic people to work with.

Worst moment of your day?
No such thing. The first half hour, getting into the flow for the day, is sometimes challenging.

Favourite object to take home?
That changes every day – even though I prefer to look at my favourite pieces in the safety of the museum.

Public transport or cycling?
Public transport – I still cycle on the right automatically – it’s probably better for everyone if I stick to the tube!

Old Masters or Modern British?
Old Masters.

Most over-used expression at work?
I wish I could say “Brexit”. The reality, of course, is that we need to talk about its implications – which means we will have to use the expression much more in the months ahead.

Preview opening tip?
Wear your nicest pair of shoes and travel light – no heavy handbags!

Alternative career option?
Building archeologist – I did surveys for an open air museum as a student and I was always just as passionate about small-scale decorative art works like gold boxes as monumental buildings.

Read more about the Rosalinde and Arther Gilbert collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum

Image: © Victoria and Albert Museum, London/ Courtesy Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert collection
Mother of pearl and silver-gilt partridge cup with gold and gems: Jorg Ruel Nuremberg, 1598-1602