Richard Edgcumbe, a distinguished scholar and curator renowned for his expertise in European precious metalwork, died on May 26, 2026, at the age of 74. His career was closely tied to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, where he played a significant role in preserving and expanding the museum’s collection of jewellery and goldsmiths’ art.

Born in London on June 14, 1951, Edgcumbe was the son of haematologist John Edgcumbe and Teryll Degwell Thomas. He was related on his father’s side to the painter Sir Joshua Reynolds. His early fascination with art and design was nurtured through an academic journey that began with a history degree at Cambridge, followed by museum studies in Manchester. In the absence of immediate opportunities in the museum sector, he pursued a DPhil at Oxford focused on the art of gold chasing. This research culminated in his 1990 publication, *The Art of the Gold Chaser in Eighteenth-Century London*, considered a seminal work on the craft used in fine decorative objects such as snuff boxes and cane handles.

Edgcumbe’s professional career included roles at the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery and the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff before joining the V&A in 1985 as Assistant Keeper of Metalwork under then-director Sir Roy Strong. There, he was afforded access to one of the world’s most important collections of metalwork, which he helped to develop and promote internationally.

One of Edgcumbe’s notable achievements was the 2019 reopening of the V&A’s jewellery gallery, a project made possible by the patronage of William and Judith Bollinger. Under his guidance, the gallery was refurbished to display the collection with enhanced lighting, labels, and presentation, elevating public appreciation of the works.

Perhaps his most significant acquisition was the sapphire and diamond coronet created by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1840. Recognizing its artistic and cultural significance, Edgcumbe secured the coronet for the museum, adding a landmark piece to the institution’s holdings. In tribute, a copy of the 1842 Winterhalter portrait depicting Queen Victoria wearing the coronet was loaned and subsequently donated to the V&A’s permanent collection in his memory.

Throughout his career, Edgcumbe was committed to preserving national heritage, serving as an expert adviser to the Export Reviewing Committee of Arts Council England. His role ensured that important silver and jewellery remained in Britain’s public collections. Beyond his metalwork specialization, he engaged with architecture and was an active member of the Church Building Trust.

Colleagues remember Edgcumbe for his courteous manner, traditional style, and steadfast dedication to museum work. He was known for his diplomatic skill in navigating complex negotiations involving private loans, acquisitions, and sponsorships, and for mentoring emerging professionals in the field.

In addition to his curatorial contributions, Edgcumbe donated significant items relating to Sir Joshua Reynolds, including the artist’s "faux ermine" silk suit, further connecting his personal heritage to his professional life.

Richard Edgcumbe is survived by his wife, Irena Czerniawska, and their son.