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More Collections

Explore highlights of the Beaney's permanent collections spanning Ancient Egyptian and Greek artefacts, objects from the East Kent area to around the world, birds and butterflies, stain glass, paintings and drawings. These fascinating collections are now newly displayed following the careful refurbishment of this historic building and its galleries.

carved wooden paddle handle on display at the Beaney Art Museum and Library

World Explorers and Travellers

The Beaney's collections include a range of fascinating items donated by people with Canterbury connections who travelled the world.

Latham centrepiece on display at the Beaney Art Museum and Library © National Army Museum, London

The Buffs: East Kent Regiment

Originating in Tudor times, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) is one of the oldest in the British army, named after the creamy-brown colour of much of its uniform.

Statuette of the Hindu elephant god, Ganesh on display at the Beaney Art Museum and Library

Reverend Henry Lansdell's Travels Across Asia

During the 1870s and 1880s, Henry Lansdell travelled across Europe and Asia. Whilst travelling he acquired various items by gift or purchase.

head of a steel mace from the South Indian Arms and Armour collection on display at the Beaney Art Museum and Library

South Indian Arms and Armour from Stephen Lushington

Stephen Rumbold Lushington (1776 - 1868) was a patron and life member of Canterbury Philosophical and Literary Institution.

Materials and their Uses

Materials have been creatively transformed by people over the centuries into a huge range of useful and decorative items. Find out more here.

Dutch and Old Master Paintings

In 1905 a group of Dutch paintings from the 16th to 17th centuries, together with copies after Old Masters were donated to the Beaney.

Colour and Camouflage

This Beaney display is arranged in rainbow colour order, with a group of mimic and camouflage patterns, and selected works of art to complement the collection.

Works on Paper

Works on paper are a particular strength at the Beaney. Highlights include an important group of Italian works, including drawings by Francesco Guardi.