History
The Victoria and Albert Museum was originally established in 1855 in Mumbai. During this time, the museum was used as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. The thought of establishing a museum was suggested by a collector known as Dr. Buist, when the India was under the control of British East India Company. Dr. Ramkrishna Vitthal Lad, also known as Dr. Bhau planned the construction of the museum with an amount of Rs. 6000. After a committee was formed, the foundation for building the museum was laid down in 1862. The construction was complete only in 1871 and the museum was opened in 1872. The museum is presently known as 'Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum'. It was renamed after Dr Bhau Daji Lad because of his dedication to the museum.
Architecture
The initial appearance of the Victoria and Albert Museum had a gloomy look but now, after the various contributions put forth by the 'Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), the museum has improved in its appearance. The museum is adorned with gold ornamentations on the corners of the walls, railings and ceilings. The blue-painted pillars add magnificence to the museum's look. The entire construction of the museum is inspired by the Greco-Roman style of architecture. Apart from the arches that are elegantly designed and the heavy glass cases, the high painted ceilings of the museum is also a work of expertise. The 'Victoria Gardens' or 'Rani Jijamata Udyan', serves as a backdrop for this ancient museum.
Museum Artifacts
Over 4000 manuscripts and reference books are preserved neatly inside the museum. There are several clay models, costumes, beautifully shaped silver and copper that are some of the most impressive collections. Victoria and Albert Museum conserves photographs of ancient Bombay (Mumbai) and testimonials that belonged to the colonial past. The museum encompasses bronze sculptures, weapons, ivories, fossils, and decorative metal ware. The most attractive piece, that one cannot miss, is the elephant sculpture from 'Elephanta Island'. Other artifacts include pottery, paintings, coins and the ancient relics.
The Victoria and Albert Museum, which is now known as 'Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum' was named after Dr. Bhau for his contributions to the museum. This museum is one of Mumbai's oldest museums that feature some of the greatest ancient artifacts of Mumbai.