Objects From The Past

Jamaica has a rich history, and as we celebrate 50 years of Independence, we take a look back at how we got here. With the kind assistance of the Institute of Jamaica, 'Objects from our Past' will highlight a total of 50 objects which are part of the Institute of Jamaica's collection. Today, we feature two of these Objects from our Past. Check this space next Sunday for two more.

• Kola Nut offering bowl

Kola Nuts (bissy) are traditionally offered to much-respected guests visiting homes in many parts of West Africa. The nuts, which contain a mild stimulant, are eaten to relieve tension, hunger pangs, to socialise - rather like wine-drinking in Western societies.

(Collections of the Institute of Jamaica)

• Mary Seacole Bust

The Mary Seacole Bust was sculpted by Count Victor Ferdinand Franz Gleichen (Prince Victor of Hohenlohe-Langenburg), nephew of Queen Victoria, who served in the Royal Navy. It was during his tenure as a lieutenant in the Crimean War that he met Mary Seacole and later urged Queen Victoria to support an already bankrupt Seacole. Retiring from active service in 1866, he became a sculptor and was renowned for his work on King Alfred and Queen Victoria.

(Collections of the Institute of Jamaica)