Soap Journal Exhibition
From Sunday 23rd March our Marylebone shop will be hosting an exhibition of vintage soaps; the prized collection of Matthew Brooks, founder of Soap Journal.
Soap Journal was started by Matthew in 2020 as a way of showcasing his collection of old soap and soap packaging; an interest sparked as Matthew got his first whiff of carbolic soap in an English heritage property as a teenager. For the last 20 years he has been fascinated by the way in which British social history can be read through the branding and production of soap. His particular interest is in household soap; once used in every household for everything from laundry to making polish, but now almost completely forgotten.
The collection spans from roughly 1900 to the present day and demonstrates the way in which brands –such as Fairy, still known today– evolved to meet changing consumer needs. This evolution also ensured these brands were reflecting the latest in design trends through the graphics of their packaging. All pieces still contain their original soap and therefore offer a compelling insight into the sights, and indeed smells, of the past.
On Thursday 27th March, Matthew will be in our Marylebone shop giving a talk about his collection. Please join us from 6pm. Drinks provided.
