The chains will be featured in the ‘Civic Bling’ collection, alongside other displays from key jewellery collectors throughout the state.
Chair Commissioner Eric Lumsden says showcasing two prominent Mayoral Chains will allow the community to learn more about the history of the City of Perth.
“Mayoral Chains are a traditional part of becoming a Lord Mayor, and the chains on display have a strong history with the City of Perth,” Mr Lumsden said.
“The older of the chains was created only 30 years after the City of Perth was founded, and it’s great to see this important part of Perth’s history on display at the Art Gallery.”
The first, made in 1886 for Sir George Shenton Jnr, was the first to be styled for the Mayor of Perth and features the iconic black swans.
The second, a Lady Mayoress Chain, made in 1966 for the wife of Mayor Charles J. B. Veryard, will also form part of the Beyond Bling! exhibition.
The free Beyond Bling! Exhibition will open to the public until 14 January 2019.
Issued by Haydn Kruger, Media Advisor, haydn.kruger@cityofperth.wa.gov.au, 0427 832 942
Artwork Credits:
Untitled [Portrait, The Hon. Sir George Shenton KB MLC- 1st Mayor of Perth] Mayoral photograph, (detail), by C.S. Bardwell-Clarke, c.1880s, sepia photograph, 97 x 79 cm. City of Perth Cultural Heritage Collections.