I am currently in England for the Royal Collections Studies, a prestigious 10-day course offered by the Attingham Trust for art historians and museum curators. This immersive program brought together 30 participants from over a dozen countries, including five of us from the United States. Over the past several days, we’ve explored the rich and diverse collections housed in palaces in and around London, delving into the fascinating history of the objects owned and displayed by the royal family since the reign of King Charles I (since much earlier material hasn’t survived).

The course has offered an incredible opportunity to study royal paintings, ceramics, books, sculptures, furniture, and prints. However, beyond just admiring these collections, I’ve been particularly interested in how these historic places are managed and interpreted for visitors.

One especially clever approach was found at Kew Gardens, in the palace of King George III. There, the interpretation of one of the dining rooms used a unique method: the dishes on the table featured modern ceramic plates with text transferred directly onto them. This subtle but effective technique allows visitors to learn about the room without the need for traditional labels or signage, which can sometimes detract from the historic atmosphere. I’ve also seen this idea applied using embroidered tea towels and tablecloths—another way to educate visitors while maintaining the authenticity of the space.

It’s a brilliant balance of education and preservation, and a reminder of how thoughtful interpretation can enhance our understanding of historic places without overwhelming the senses.