Top of bone pin in shape of a unicorn's head, shown in profile.

How to catch a unicorn

Room 40

Explore objects from medieval Europe 1050–1500.

In this video, Curator Naomi Speakman explores mythical beasts and their symbolism represented in objects within the medieval collection.

Speakman discusses all sorts of weird and wonderful objects, including a bone unicorn pin used to part hair, and a similar tool, with an arguably less pleasant purpose...

Watch the video

Curator's Corner: How to catch a unicorn