Paintings can offer a unique glimpse into history - but what happens when the artwork’s identifying elements are unclear? Solving these mysteries often takes extensive detective work, as with a painting of a 17th-century family that has confounded curators for 90 years! Has one of our curators finally cracked the case?

Learn how recent research has revealed a connection between the port of Liverpool’s Bidston Hill signal station and Norfolk, Virginia in the 18th century.

In this notable edition of Beyond the Frame, we explore the story of the 613-foot passenger Liner, S.S. Virginia, and the dedicated shipbuilders who, for over a century, made these feats of engineering a reality. We immerse ourselves in the unforgettable experience of watching as the ship begins to slip free of the ways. And, we discover what it's like to experience this moment of culmination from current shipbuilders who have spent decades working with these amazing vessels alongside their fellow shipbuilders. Read the full blog for exciting news about happenings at The Mariners'!

In this special, in-depth edition of Beyond the Frame, we explore the world of oysters - past and present. Two 1907 paintings by Clifford Warren Ashley highlight oyster dredging and replanting from the skipjack Mattie Flavell as it was done over 115 years ago. While exploring these works, the author, Kyra Duffley, worked with both oyster farmers and restoration specialists in  our world today to show the full-circle story of oystering. Read the full blog to learn about the mariners who come together in the name of the oyster.

The Bronze Doors have been treated! See how our Conservation team treated these iconic pieces this summer.