Old Identities Carvings

This group of 30 carved heads (representing prominent early Wellingtonians) were originally placed around the exterior of the Albert Hotel (hence the alternative name, The Old Identities Hotel) where they remained until 1929 when the building was demolished. They were later gifted to the City and were stored in the Central Library on Mercer Street - see external link below of an image from the Library. They remained in the Library basement for some time and are now housed at the Wellington Museum.

Photograph taken by Charles Fearnley.

Wellington City Libraries wishes to thank Maribeth S. Coleman for the donation of ‘Public Art and Publically Accessible Art’. We would also like to acknowledge The Dominion Post for allowing us to share their content.

Maribeth Coleman’s photographs and index remain under Copyright but are shared here on a Creative Commons basis. Artworks and supporting documents shown are also under Copyright, and where appropriate permission has been sought from the Copyright holder. The creative works depicted here often contain cultural references and significance. We ask that users respect the mana and dignity of the works, artists and communities represented, in addition to any applications of Copyright. For further information see the Collection Guideline.