Wax fruit and vegetable models

The wax fruit and vegetable models in the museum’s collection date from the 1870s to the 1960s. The collection fills 10 cabinets with over 50 types of fruits and vegetables, including 624 cultivars of apples, 94 pears and 135 plums.

In the absence of colour photography, the models were used to promote Victoria’s horticultural development and opportunities. They were also used to educate the public about what was suitable for Victoria and to show the impact of common diseases and pests. The expertise of the museum staff who created this collection has been recognised internationally, and the models have been displayed in exhibitions overseas.