This small town in Orkney hosts a curious collection of Chinese objects. From crockery to Manchu footwear to a compass for divination, there are some very interesting items on display in this corner of the Highlands. The majority of these objects cannot be attributed to a donor, but it is known that Captain Jobson was a contributor, and Jean Crichton generously gifted some Japanese bone China in 1966.  

Most of the Chinese ceramics at Stromness Museum appear to have spent much of their time at sea. For instance, these shards are from the wreck of the ship “Albion” on New Year’s Day, 1966 off the Point of Oxan. The pieces of crockery also have some nautical experiences. There are bone China cups, saucers, and plates which were once used for a sea captain’s parlour display, now showcased in Stromness’ Social History collection. 

The museum possesses two pairs of shoes from the Qing period (1644-1911). The first is a high platform woman’s shoe: the lower half is made from wood to create the platform, while the upper half is created out of red embroidered silk. The second pair is a child’s shoe with the very amusing embroidery of a dragon’s face, reflecting the youthful playfulness of its wearer.