Ep 1. Pioneering Women
- June 10, 2018
In this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, the theme is "Pioneering Women." As always, the experts are on hand to evaluate a wide variety of objects brought in by members of the public, but in this episode they pay tribute to the trailblazing women who have made their mark in a range of fields.
Among the guests is a woman who has brought in a stunning painting by the artist Alice Mary Burton, who fought against the male-dominated establishment of the art world in the late 19th and early 20th century. With a strong colour palette and striking composition, this piece is a testament to Burton's determination to succeed in an era when few women were taken seriously as artists.
Another woman brings in a collection of photographs taken by her great-great-grandmother, Lilian Ream, who was one of the earliest female photographers in the UK. Taken in the 1920s and 30s, these pictures depict rural life and showcase Ream's talent for capturing the beauty of the natural world.
Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to the stories of many other pioneering women, from suffragettes to scientists. One particularly striking item is a scientific instrument used by Caroline Herschel, who alongside her brother William Herschel discovered more than 2,400 astronomical objects in the late 18th and early 19th century. This modest-looking piece of equipment belies its importance in the hands of this remarkable woman, who made an enormous contribution to our understanding of the universe.
As always, the experts provide fascinating insights into the history and value of the objects they encounter. In one segment, a visitor brings in a letter from Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing and a pioneer of public health, to her goddaughter. The letter is emotional and revealing, shedding light on Nightingale's personal life and the struggles she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field.
The episode also features a beautiful dress worn by the famous aviatrix Amy Johnson, who made a number of ground-breaking flights in the 1930s. This item provides a glimpse into a different kind of pioneering spirit, as Johnson challenged societal norms and carved out a path for women in the field of aviation.
Throughout the episode, viewers are reminded of the struggles faced by these women in an era that was often hostile to their ambitions. Yet their persistence and determination allow them to leave their mark on history, and the objects they have left behind provide a poignant reminder of their accomplishments.
Overall, "Pioneering Women" is a fascinating and inspiring episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, showcasing the stories of some truly remarkable women and the objects that tell their stories. Whether you're a fan of antiques or simply interested in history and culture, this episode is a must-watch.