Landmark needlework collection donated to National Museums NI through Cultural Gifts Scheme

National Museums NI has received a landmark donation of early needlework from renowned antiques dealer, textiles expert and author Lanto Synge, the former Chief Executive of Mallett and Sons, a globally prominent antique and fine art dealer.  The donation was made possible through the UK Government’s Cultural Gifts Scheme. Recognised as one of the most significant private collections of its kind, the gift comprises around 250 artworks, primarily English textiles from the 16th to 19th centuries, and represents a transformational addition to Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage.

Deemed “nationally important”, the donation was formally accepted under the Cultural Gifts Scheme, which allows significant cultural items to be donated to public institutions in exchange for tax relief. Now in public ownership, this once-private collection will be housed at the Ulster Museum, with highlights going on display in 2026 as part of the anticipated ‘Ashes to Fashion’ exhibition.

Commenting on the donation, Lanto Synge said, 

“More affordable than magnificent furniture, antique needlework became a passion for me during my time developing the field at Mallett’s. In my spare time, as a junior and as CEO, I bought and sold embroideries and gradually acquired a substantial collection of exceptional pieces and retained some lesser items that represented the art and skills of domestic needle workers. This is the most important aspect of the collection from a museum point of view, and the motivation behind my donation to National Museums NI, alongside of course my fond memories of my time here in Belfast as a student of Campbell College. 

“The Ulster Museum is the perfect recipient - its existing collections complement my collection in ways that create the largest, unique collection of needlework, fashion, costume and textiles to exist anywhere.”

The pieces include woolwork, embroidered panels, pictures, samplers, furniture, hangings and valances, alongside items from France, India and China. Until now, the collection had never been on public display. The only equivalents in scope and quality are found at the V&A, the British Museum, and The Met in New York.

William Blair, Director of Collections at National Museums NI, said, 

“We are honoured to bring these significant pieces into the collection. Lanto Synge’s gift transforms our ability to present, study and preserve centuries of textile history. These pieces are far beyond the reach of public institutions today and will now inspire future generations of students, designers, and researchers.

It marks a significant cultural moment for Northern Ireland and supports our vision to become an Independent Research Organisation, and an international centre of excellence for textile heritage.”

The donation holds particular significance as it helps rebuild what was lost in 1976, when a bombing at Malone House destroyed National Museums NI’s previous costume and textile collection. In response, the Ulster Museum began curating a new, future-focused collection - acquiring high street and designer fashion every year from the 1980s to now.

Charlotte McReynolds, Curator of Fashion and Textiles, explained, 

“We took tragedy and turned it into opportunity, building a collection that reflects fashion trends and design innovation over the decades. This donation enhances that story – now we can also offer the public access to historic textile masterpieces, creating a fuller narrative of style, skill and cultural identity.”