Founded in 1876, the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design in Oslo became one of the very first institutions of its kind in Europe. Its collection includes more than 35 thousand items related to handicrafts, crafts, and design in various fields.
At the exhibitions, you can see galleries of costumes from different eras, excellent collections of glass and ceramics, and examples of textiles and accessories. The displays cover a vast historical period: you will be able to trace the development of decorative and applied arts around the world, from ancient Greek vases to contemporary European fashion design.
The pride of the museum is the 12th-century Baldishol tapestry, the collection of royal costumes, antique tableware made from the famous glass of the Nøstetangen glassverk manufactory, and 18th-century faience from Herrebøe. Temporary exhibitions are regularly held at the museum. Of the permanent displays, visitors are especially attracted to “Design and Handicrafts 1905-2005” and “Style 1100-1905”.
There is also a very charming little shop here, where you can buy various designer items, books, and postcards. In addition, there is the elegantly decorated cafe Solliløkken, where cold and hot drinks and delicious pastries are served.
