‘Expecting: Birth, Belief and Protection’ is a new display that explores the protective practices and beliefs around pregnancy, childbirth and infertility that existed in medieval times and continue through to today.
At the heart of the display is a parchment scroll (MS.632(view in catalogue)) produced in England, around 1500 CE. Christian prayers and religious illustrations cover the parchment’s entire 3-metre length, which could be wrapped around the body for protection during childbirth and at other moments of danger.
Only a handful of birth scrolls survive today, and the display is a rare opportunity to see this fragile object from our collections. In some parts of the scroll, the writing and illustrations have worn away through bodily contact, and other areas are stained. A video in the display features an interview with Dr Sarah Fiddyment, the protein scientist who analysed the scroll and confirmed that it was actively used during childbirth.
The display focuses on non-medical strategies to manage fear and pain, as well as establish hope and resilience in childbirth and loss. Prayers offered before or during pregnancy and labour were, and still are, part of many cultural and spiritual traditions.
Alongside the medieval scroll are other historical works from the collections, and contemporary artworks by artists Seyni Awa Camara and Tabitha Moses, which reference their own experiences of loss, infertility and parenthood through therapeutic and spiritual art practices.
Together, the historical manuscripts and contemporary works speak to enduring traditions of care and belief in the protective power of sacred images and words and the healing power of art.
This display includes references to childbirth, fertility and fertility treatments, reproduction, child loss, medical trauma, grief, death, faith and spirituality. Where appropriate, there will be content notices on the exhibition labels. Please speak to a member of staff If you would like further information.