The Jewish community in Britain has often been associated with particular trades. The museum’s collection includes material relating to medieval moneylenders, 18th century pedlars and boxers, 19th century financiers and politicians and 20th century tailors and bakers.
Porcelain Figures of Jewish Pedlars
Pair of derby ware figures, dating around 1760 from Stoke-On-Trent, represent an increasingly visible sight in 18th century England: the Jewish pedlar.
Mendoza Jug
Staffordshire pottery jug, dating from around 1800, depicts a famous fight between Mendoza and Richard Humphreys in 1788.
London Jewish Bakers’ Union
Painted silk banner c1925 belonged to the London Jewish Bakers’ Union, the longest lived Jewish trade union, which operated from 1905 to 1970.