Victorian Scrapbooks

A collection of 18 biscuits of different sizes and shapes. In the centre is a large rectangular biscuit with rounded edges, painted with a snowy church scene. Flanking that biscuit are two large roses in shades of yellow and magenta. At the top corners of the set are two tiny teacups: one features spindly text that reads 'Think of me when far away', and the other says 'With fond love for thee'. The other biscuits in the set include: small butterflies in vivid shades of red, blue, yellow, and orange; leaves; a duck; a Basset hound; tiny figures in historical dress; a water mill scene; and a bouquet adorned with a banner that reads 'Wishing you a Happy New Year'.

Biscuit (cookie) flavour: Based on a Victorian recipe for fig pudding. Ingredients include fig, candied peel, almond & sherry.

Decoration: Royal icing base. All designs painted by hand with food colouring gels and vodka.

Context: Inspired by two scrapbooks in the Powerhouse Collection. The scrapbooks are believed to have been compiled by children between 1880 and 1890.