Manchester Museum acquires rare ornithology masterpiece to keep "National Treasure" in UK
- Helen Clarke
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
Helen Clarke
Manchester Museum and The John Rylands Library have secured a significant acquisition, ensuring a rare ornithological work remains in the UK.
Both part of The University of Manchester, the institutions have acquired Henry Dresser’s personal copy of A History of the Birds of Europe.
The illustrated volumes are richly annotated and offer a vital historical record of bird species across the continent.
This acquisition complements Manchester Museum’s collection of Dresser’s bird specimens, including the now likely extinct Slender-billed curlew.
A joint study by the Natural History Museum, RSPB, and BirdLife International declared the species possibly extinct
Its presence in both the books and specimens underscores the role of historical collections in tracking biodiversity loss.
Dresser, a key 19th-century ornithologist, combined scientific detail with exquisite wildlife illustration.
His 'Birds of Europe' is widely seen as his most significant contribution to natural history.
The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art had placed a temporary export ban, recognizing the books as a national treasure.
Manchester Museum and The John Rylands Library raised the funds needed to keep the books in the UK.
Support came from Art Fund, the V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Friends of the Nations’ Libraries and the University itself.
The volumes will go on public display at Manchester Museum’s Living Worlds gallery from 28th June until January 2026.
After that they will be accessible to researchers and students at The John Rylands Library.
Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum, called the books "breathtakingly beautiful" and vital to understanding today’s environmental challenges.
The acquisition highlights Manchester’s leadership in preserving cultural and scientific heritage.
It also strengthens the Museum and Library’s shared commitment to public engagement and academic research.
The exhibition opens with a private view on 27th June.