Sir Arthur Gilbert (1913-2001) - his collection is now going to be housed at the V&A. Courtesy the Gilbert Collection

One of the most important collections of decorative art in the UK is to be transferred, virtually wholesale, to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).

The Gilbert Collection of gold, silver, micromosaics and gold boxes will move from its current home in Somerset House to a suite of specially designed galleries at the V&A in 2007.

Its base at Somerset House will close to the public on January 27 2008 before opening in a suite of new Gilbert Galleries, overlooking the V&A garden, in 2009. Some pieces will also be incorporated elsewhere into displays at the museum whilst some of the silver will be returned on loan to the historic houses for which it was originally made.

“The Gilbert Collection will add a new dimension to the V&A,” said Mark Jones, Director of the V&A. “It brings spectacular masterpieces such as the Frederick the Great snuffboxes, outstanding silver and fascinating mosaics which will greatly enhance the V&A’s displays.”

Partridge cup, silver-gilt, mother-of-pearl, rubies and emeralds. Jörg Ruel (1598-1625) Nuremberg, c.1600. Courtesy the Gilbert Collection

Bequeathed to the nation in 1996 by the late Sir Arthur Gilbert, the Gilbert Collection is one of the most important collections of works of decorative art ever gifted to the country. It comprises some 800 objects and, in each of the three fields it encompasses, is considered to be among the most distinguished in the world.

The collection of mosaics is the most comprehensive ever formed, with Roman and Florentine examples dating from the 16th to the 19th century, whilst the gold and sliver collection has exceptional breadth ranging from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

Gilbert’s munificence was the catalyst for the opening up of Somerset House for public enjoyment with the help of a £10 million endowment from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Since its opening in May 2000 over 500,000 visitors have filed through its doors.

“The Gilbert Collection has had a lasting impact on the opening up of Somerset House and its move to the V&A promises to usher in an even more successful era,” said Nick Hoffman, Chairman of the Heather Trust for the Arts, the owner and guardian of the Gilbert Collection.

Table with flora of the two Sicilies, micromosaic and gilt bronze. Michelangeo Barberi (1787-1867). Rome, c. 1850. Courtesy the Gilbert Collection

A series of web projects and publications are planned to help broaden access and to increase understanding of the collection. The gallery space vacated by the collection will be used by Somerset House to host a new public programme.