WA Treasures

How did an American bison, musical instruments made from turtle shell, and a Cromwellian helmet from the Tower of London end up on display in Perth?

They were acquired to share the world and its cultures with the people of Western Australia, stimulate creativity among early museum and art gallery goers, and inspire local artisans and artists.

Fuel your imagination as you discover the stories behind these objects and other curios collectables from a time when the Art Gallery of Western Australia and Western Australian Museum were one entity, co-located with the State Library of Western Australia.

They are showcased within the grandeur of heritage-listed Hackett Hall — originally part of the library — alongside Aboriginal collections that are a defining part of the State’s ancient and enduring creativity.

WA Treasures also offers an unparalleled view of the Museum’s beloved 24m blue whale skeleton, suspended in a dynamic lunging position from the ceiling.

Washed ashore in 1897 near the mouth of the Vasse River, the whale’s skeleton was named after Otto Lipfert, the Museum’s taxidermist who had the incredible foresight to collect and preserve the skeleton for future generations.

Visiting “Otto” the whale at the WA Museum remains a powerful memory for many Western Australians.

It beautifully illustrates the legacy and value of collecting items of all sizes and origins.