The Museum of Witchcraft

Images of Witchcraft

In this area the museum displays a selection of images of witches and looks at the stereotypes that have developed over the ages. We show some of the 16th and 17th century woodcuts from which the 'classic' image of a witch originated.

Cloth witches on broomstick have manufactured as children's toys and household decorations for a surprisingly long time. These 'toys' are also used as protection amulets and hung above door entrances and windows. Our extensive collection shows examples from Britain, Europe and America.

We show how the image of the witch with her broomstick and cauldron has been used to promote products from Pears soap to 'Witch' fire-lighters.

The traditional Old Hag image of the witch has been slowly changing and in recent years many children's stories, films and television programs have portrayed witches as friendly, wise and fun.

Photographs of Gerald Gardner, Alex Saunders and other witches that were instrumental in revival of interest in witchcraft in the 1950s, are shown alongside modern witches that are practising 'the craft' today.

Although the stereotype of a witch with pointed hat riding a broomstick or stirring a cauldron is al pervasive, we hope to demonstrate that witches come in all shapes and sizes.

The museum has a large collection of prints, photographs, paintings and various other images. Some are displayed throughout the Museum and many are held in the archive.