british museum
the history of the british museum
The British Museum, located in the heart of London, is an enduring symbol of knowledge and cultural exploration. Since its establishment in 1753, it has stood as a testament to the power of human discovery, curiosity, and preservation. This museum, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world, holds an array of artefacts from all corners of the globe, offering insights into over two million years of history. This blog aims to provide a brief yet comprehensive journey through the history of the British Museum.
The British Museum's story begins with Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish physician and naturalist. Over his lifetime, Sloane amassed an eclectic collection of around 71,000 objects, a curious mix of books, manuscripts, prints, drawings, antiquities, coins, medals, and natural specimens. Upon his death in 1753, Sloane bequeathed his entire collection to the British nation, thereby sowing the seeds for what would become the British Museum. This was an extraordinary act of philanthropy in an age of private collectors.
An act of Parliament established the British Museum in that same year, initially housing it in a 17th-century mansion, Montagu House, in Bloomsbury. In its first 53 years, the museum opened its doors only to the ‘learned and curious’, who had to apply in writing for admission. In 1759, the museum officially opened its doors to the public, free of charge, becoming one of the world's first public museums.
The initial collection quickly expanded as Britain's global reach increased during the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the museum's most iconic pieces, the Rosetta Stone, came into British hands in 1802 after the defeat of Napoleon's army in Egypt. This black basalt slab, inscribed with a decree from 196 B.C., provided the key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs. It was a monumental find that brought new insights into ancient Egyptian civilization.
The Greek Revival façade that we associate with the British Museum today was not built until the mid-19th century. Sir Robert Smirke designed the new building, which was constructed between 1823 and 1852. His designs provided a grand new home for the growing collections. The centerpiece of this new design was the Reading Room, a vast, domed structure that was to become one of the museum's most famous features.
The 19th century also saw the controversial acquisition of the Parthenon Marbles, more commonly known as the Elgin Marbles. Lord Elgin, British Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, acquired these marble sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens between 1801 and 1805. Despite ongoing disputes about their rightful ownership, these sculptures remain one of the British Museum's most visited collections.
In the 20th century, the museum's growth continued, reflecting the world's historical and cultural developments. The museum was bombed several times during the Second World War, resulting in the loss of some objects and the relocation of others for safekeeping. The post-war period saw further expansion of the museum's collections, with a focus on archaeology and ethnography.
In the 21st century, the British Museum underwent significant changes. One of the most notable was the construction of the Great Court, opened in 2000. This magnificent, two-acre enclosed courtyard, with its striking glass and steel roof designed by architect Norman Foster, is the largest covered public square in Europe.
With the advent of the digital age, the British Museum embraced new technologies to increase accessibility to its vast collections. It created a digital database, allowing people from around the world to explore its collections virtually. Online exhibitions, digital learning resources, and social media brought the museum to a global audience like never before.
Today, the British Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK, with nearly 6 million visitors pre-pandemic annually. Its extensive collection of over 8 million works is among the largest and most comprehensive in existence, illustrating and documenting the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present.
The British Museum stands as an icon of human history and culture. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a private collection into a public institution, growing and adapting alongside the world it seeks to represent. It continues to inspire and educate, drawing millions of people each year to explore its treasures. Its history is a testament to the enduring power of curiosity, the importance of preservation, and the shared human desire to understand our past.
The museum’s past is not without controversy, from disputes over the acquisition of artefacts to its role in the era of colonialism. These debates are part of the ongoing dialogue about the role of museums in the 21st century. But the British Museum, like all museums, ultimately exists to connect us with our collective human heritage, sparking dialogue, reflection, and understanding. As we walk through its halls, we are reminded of the incredible diversity and depth of human experience across time and space, and the museum's rich history adds another layer to this unfolding narrative.
The history of the British Museum is a story of exploration, discovery, and enlightenment. As it moves into the future, it remains a vital link to our past, an institution committed to bringing the world's history to our doorstep. As the museum continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: its commitment to preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of human history. The British Museum is not just a building or a collection of objects; it is a living testament to our shared human story, reminding us of where we've been, who we are, and who we might become.
fascinating facts
The British Museum is a world-renowned institution, a treasure trove of global history and culture. It is rich not only in its collections but also in its own history and unique stories. Here are 20 fascinating facts and intrigues about the British Museum that you might not know.
Sir Hans Sloane's Collection
The British Museum was established with the collection of Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish physician. He collected over 71,000 items in his lifetime, ranging from antiquities to natural specimens, which he left to the nation.
The Rosetta Stone's Significance
This stone slab was instrumental in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, effectively opening up an entire civilization's history for study.
Elgin Marbles Controversy
The museum's collection includes the Elgin Marbles, removed from the Parthenon in Athens in the early 19th century, sparking a dispute that continues to this day, with Greece insisting on their return.
World's First Public National Museum
The British Museum was the world's first national public museum. It has been free to visit since opening its doors in 1759.
World War II Bombings
The museum was bombed several times during WWII. Some objects were destroyed, while others were moved for safekeeping.
Largest Covered Public Square in Europe
The museum's Great Court, opened in 2000, is the largest covered public square in Europe.
Library to British Museum
The famed Round Reading Room housed the British Library until 1997. It was frequented by many famous figures, including Karl Marx, Oscar Wilde, and Mahatma Gandhi.
Museum's Secret Underground Station
During WWII, an underground railway station, called "British Museum," was built for the Central line. However, it was never used by the public.
The Portland Vase
This exquisite glass vase, dating back to the 1st century B.C., was shattered in 1845 by a drunken visitor. It took over a year to restore.
Invaluable Numismatic Collection
The museum boasts one of the world's most comprehensive numismatic collections, featuring coins, medals, and banknotes from virtually every historical period and region.
Digital Evolution
The British Museum has digitised its collection, making it accessible to anyone around the world.
Gold Rush Contribution
Gold from the Klondike Gold Rush, a gift from Canada, was used in gilding parts of the museum's ornate ceiling.
Unique Superstition
The museum staff adhere to a quirky superstition – they stroke the left hind paw of the statue of a lion (once part of the Lion of Knidos) for good luck.
Collection of Human History
The museum's collection spans over two million years of human history and culture.
Egyptian Mummies
The British Museum has the largest and most comprehensive collection of Egyptian antiquities (outside of Egypt), including a number of well-preserved mummies.
Endangered Animals
The Natural History collection includes specimens of animals that are now extinct, like the dodo and the quagga.
Aloof Cats
The museum has a vast collection of Egyptian artefacts related to cats, including sculptures, jewellery, and mummified cats.
Longest-Running Post
The British Museum's longest-serving employee was Arthur Smith, who worked as a gallery attendant for 49 years.
The Stolen 'Jewel of Muscat'
In 2010, a 1,200-year-old piece of Islamic Art, the "Jewel of Muscat," was briefly stolen from the museum.
A Place of Inspiration
Many authors, including J.K. Rowling and George Eliot, have used the museum and its collection as a source of inspiration.
top 20 important artworks
The British Museum is a treasure trove of humanity's shared history. Its extensive collection, one of the largest in the world, spans over two million years, covering the globe's every corner. With so much to see, it's hard to know where to start. This blog will guide you through the 20 most important artworks and exhibits that the British Museum in London has to offer.
The Rosetta Stone
This is perhaps the most famous exhibit in the museum. This stone slab, dating from 196 B.C., provided the key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, opening up the entire civilization's history for study.
Elgin Marbles
Also known as the Parthenon Sculptures, these marble friezes and statues from the Acropolis in Athens have been a source of controversy ever since they were brought to Britain in the early 19th century.
Egyptian Mummies
The British Museum boasts an impressive collection of Egyptian mummies, giving a unique insight into ancient Egyptian beliefs about death and the afterlife.
The Lewis Chessmen
These 12th-century chess pieces, discovered on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, are intricately carved from walrus ivory and whales' teeth.
Hoa Hakananai'a (Easter Island Statue): This moai, one of the iconic stone statues from Easter Island, was brought to Britain in 1869. It's thought to have been carved around 1200 AD.
Assyrian Lion Hunt Reliefs
These extraordinary reliefs from the North Palace of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh depict the Assyrian king's royal lion hunts in remarkable detail.
The Sutton Hoo Helmet
This Anglo-Saxon helmet, found in a ship burial in Suffolk, is one of the most important archaeological discoveries ever made in Britain.
The Portland Vase
This Roman cameo-glass vase, dating from the 1st century BC, is renowned for its intricate scenes, which continue to puzzle scholars about their meaning.
The Oxus Treasure
The largest surviving collection of Achaemenid gold and silver, this treasure provides valuable insight into the art and beliefs of Persia in the 5th and 4th centuries BC.
The Benin Bronzes
A collection of more than 900 brass plaques from the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, these artworks provide an invaluable record of the court's life and rituals.
The Dunstable Swan Jewel
This exquisite gold and enamel brooch in the shape of a swan dates from the 14th century and is a fine example of medieval English jewelry.
The Holy Thorn Reliquary
An intricately designed, late medieval French reliquary shaped like a hawthorn bush, it is one of the most beautiful and intricate works of the British Museum.
The Royal Game of Ur
This ancient board game, over 4,500 years old, was unearthed from a royal tomb in the city of Ur, modern-day Iraq.
The Cyrus Cylinder
Often referred to as the first charter of human rights, the Cyrus Cylinder records how Cyrus the Great of Persia conquered Babylon in 539 BC.
Ain Sakhri Lovers Figurine
This is the oldest known sculpture of a human couple making love, dating back around 11,000 years, discovered in a cave near Bethlehem.
The David Vases
These are the most important examples of Yuan dynasty blue-and-white porcelain in existence, and carry the earliest known date for this kind of ware.
Samurai Armour
The British Museum houses a remarkable collection of Samurai armour and weapons, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of feudal Japan.
The Franks Casket
This Anglo-Saxon whalebone chest is carved with scenes from Roman, Jewish, Christian, and Germanic traditions - a testament to the cultural melting pot of early medieval England.
The Double-headed Serpent
An Aztec ceremonial object, studded with turquoise mosaics, depicts a double-headed serpent, a potent symbol in Mesoamerican cultures.
The Admonitions Scroll
This Chinese narrative painting is one of the world's oldest surviving artworks, often considered a masterpiece of early Chinese painting.
Whether you're interested in ancient civilizations or medieval artefacts, the British Museum has something to captivate every visitor. Each object has its own story, connecting us with our shared past and revealing insights into different cultures, beliefs, and artistic traditions. These must-see artworks and exhibits offer a journey through human history, a testament to our shared cultural heritage.
rosetta stone
The Rosetta Stone is a silent witness to history, a monumental artefact that cracked open the door to understanding an entire civilization. Its discovery marked a turning point in the study of ancient Egypt, unveiling secrets obscured by the sands of time. This blog post will delve into the fascinating story of the Rosetta Stone, exploring its origins, significance, and the message it carries.
Origins and Discovery of the Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta Stone was discovered in 1799 by French soldiers of Napoleon Bonaparte's Egypt Campaign near the town of Rashid (Rosetta) in the Nile Delta. The large, granodiorite stele, approximately 114 cm high, 72 cm wide, and 28 cm thick, dates back to 196 BC, during the reign of Ptolemy V Epiphanes. The Greek rulers of Egypt created the stone to commemorate the young king's coronation.
After the French defeat at the hands of British forces and their Ottoman allies, the stone was transferred to British ownership under the Treaty of Alexandria in 1801. It was then transported to the British Museum in 1802, where it has been on public display ever since.
The Importance of the Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta Stone is considered one of the most important archaeological finds ever made, and for a good reason. It carries an inscription in three different scripts: Ancient Greek, Demotic, and Egyptian hieroglyphs. This trilingual inscription provided the key to finally deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, a written language that had been unreadable for almost 1400 years.
The importance of the Rosetta Stone lies in its identical message written in three scripts. The presence of Ancient Greek, a well-understood language, provided scholars with a roadmap to decode the other two, particularly the mysterious hieroglyphic script of the ancient Egyptians.
Deciphering the Stone
The man credited with deciphering the Rosetta Stone is Jean-François Champollion, a French scholar and linguist. Despite intense competition, particularly from British polymath Thomas Young, it was Champollion who made the breakthrough in 1822. He realized that hieroglyphs could represent both sounds (similar to letters in the English alphabet) and ideas, a concept now known as the Rebus principle.
What is Written on the Rosetta Stone?
The inscription on the Rosetta Stone is a decree issued in Memphis by Ptolemy V. The text praises the young king, documenting his deeds and his good works for the priests and people of Egypt, including reducing taxes and forgiving debts. In return, the priests pledge to worship the king as a deity.
The decree concludes with the command that the text should be inscribed on a stela in hieroglyphs (the script of the gods, used by priests), Demotic (the common script of Egypt), and Greek (the language of the administration), and placed in every temple across Egypt.
Enduring Significance
The Rosetta Stone, while historically significant in itself, is more renowned for its contribution to our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization. The translation of hieroglyphs revolutionized Egyptology, unlocking a wealth of knowledge from this ancient culture's abundant texts and inscriptions.
Today, the Rosetta Stone remains one of the most visited exhibits in the British Museum, a testament to the human quest for knowledge and understanding. It serves as a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of cultures and the layered complexity of history. It represents a key that unlocked an ancient civilization, providing us with invaluable insight into our shared human past.
collections and departments
The British Museum in London is an awe-inspiring institution, housing millions of artifacts spanning over two million years of history. But have you ever wondered how this vast collection is organized?
Collections and Departments
The British Museum's collections are grouped into ten curatorial and research departments, each responsible for a specific geographical or thematic area. These departments not only manage the artifacts but also conduct research and organize exhibitions. Here's a quick look at these departments:
Ancient Egypt and Sudan
This department holds the most comprehensive collection of Egyptian and Sudanese artifacts in the world, from the Predynastic period to the 12th century AD. Key objects include the Rosetta Stone and an extensive collection of mummies.
Greece and Rome
Housing one of the world's most comprehensive and important collections of antiquities from the Classical world, this department covers Greek, Etruscan, and Roman artifacts, including the famous Elgin Marbles.
Middle East
This department curates collections from the early Neolithic age to the present, covering the area from the Atlantic to the Indus and from the Central Asia to the Sahara. The department holds treasures such as the Cyrus Cylinder and Assyrian reliefs.
Prints and Drawings
With over two million prints and 50,000 drawings, the department holds a broad range of works by artists from the Middle Ages to contemporary times.
Coins and Medals
This department manages one of the most comprehensive numismatic collections in the world, covering every period and region, including coins, medals, and banknotes.
Asia
Responsible for one of the most extensive collections of Asian art and artifacts in the Western world, the department covers South, Southeast, Central, and East Asia and includes a beautiful collection of Chinese ceramics and Japanese prints.
Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
This department oversees artifacts representing the diverse cultures of Africa, the Pacific, and the indigenous cultures of the Americas, showcasing significant pieces like the Benin Bronzes.
Britain, Europe, and Prehistory
This department's collection ranges from Palaeolithic Europe to the early Middle Ages, encompassing British and European history, with significant artifacts like the Sutton Hoo Helmet.
Conservation, Documentation, and Science
This department is responsible for the preservation, documentation, and research of the museum’s collections.
Portable Antiquities and Treasure
This department encourages the recording of artifacts found by members of the public in England and Wales.
Galleries
The British Museum has around 60 galleries, each showcasing artifacts from the museum's departments. The galleries are organized either by geographical location (e.g., Room 62 – Ancient Iran, Room 41 – Medieval Europe) or by theme (e.g., Room 1 – Enlightenment: Discovering the World in the Eighteenth Century).
Additionally, the museum holds temporary exhibitions, highlighting particular periods, themes, or cultures, and special displays in the Reading Room.
Conclusion
The British Museum's collections offer a journey through the world's history and culture. The organization into departments and galleries provides a structure that helps visitors and scholars navigate this enormous wealth of information. The museum continues to adapt and grow, ensuring these priceless artifacts are preserved and understood now and for generations to come.
tickets and opening times
The British Museum is open five days a week from Wednesday to Sunday. The hours of operation are as follows:
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Please note that last entry is typically an hour before the museum's closing time. It's also worth mentioning that opening times can vary for special exhibitions, events, and during holiday periods, so it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket Prices
One of the most remarkable aspects of the British Museum is that entry to the main collection is free for all visitors. Yes, you read that correctly. You can see world-renowned artefacts like the Rosetta Stone or the Elgin Marbles without spending a penny.
The policy of free admission aligns with the museum's mission as a public institution: to hold and share its collections as a means of promoting education and understanding of the world's many and varied cultures, both past and present.
However, the museum does charge for some special exhibitions. These ticket prices can vary depending on the exhibition, but typically range from £12 to £22. Concessions are available for students, persons 60 and over, and unemployed persons with ID. Children under 16 accompanied by an adult enter for free, and there are family tickets available.
Supporting the Museum
While entrance to the main collection is free, the British Museum is a charity and they encourage donations from visitors. The suggested donation is £5. This contribution supports the maintenance of the collections, the organization of exhibitions and the running of educational programs.
The British Museum
British Museum Guided Tour with Viator
The British Museum
London: British Museum Guided Tour with GetYourGuide
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