The British Museum, established in 1759, holds the distinction of being the world's first national museum open to the public free of charge. Its foundation traces back to 1753 when physician and collector Hans Sloane donated his extensive collection, providing the museum with a starting point of 71,000 items.
Over the course of 266 years, the museum has expanded significantly, now housing approximately eight million artifacts. Below is a curated list of 20 remarkable items that visitors should not overlook during their exploration.
Jōmon Cooking Pot, Japan, c. 5000 B.C.
This ancient pot, measuring about 6.5 inches square, is a testament to Japan's early pottery-making tradition. Used by hunter-gatherers to prepare meals from seasonal finds, it features distinctive cord-like patterns typical of the Jōmon period, which translates to "cord-marked." Interestingly, it was later adorned with lacquered gold leaf for tea ceremonies in the 1800s.
Not currently on view
The Royal Game of Ur, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), 2600 B.C.
This ancient game, played on an inlaid board with dice and markers, was popular in Mesopotamia. The rules were deciphered in the 1980s from a cuneiform tablet, revealing a game that features modern elements like player elimination and bonus moves. Excavated in 1926, this set is the oldest known complete tabletop game.
On display in Room 56
Queen of the Night Plaque, Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq), 1800 B.C.
This exquisite terracotta figure, representing a winged goddess, is adorned with eagle-claw feet and is believed to be linked to the goddess Ishtar. It showcases intricate details and was originally painted, reflecting the artistic prowess of ancient Mesopotamia.
On display in Room 56
Bust of Ramesses the Great, Egypt, 1292-1189 B.C.
This impressive granite bust, originally part of a larger statue, stands at 8 feet tall. Acquired by the museum in 1817, it represents one of Egypt's most renowned pharaohs, known for his long reign and numerous accomplishments, including the establishment of the first known peace treaty.
On view in Room 4
Book of the Dead, Egypt, c. 1250 B.C.
This ancient text served as a guide for the deceased, ensuring safe passage into the afterlife. The scroll depicts the judgment scene, where the heart of the deceased is weighed against a feather, symbolizing truth. Hunefer, the scribe to the pharaoh, owned this particular scroll.
On display in Room 62
Colossal Statue of a Winged Lion, Assyria (modern-day Iraq), 883-859 B.C.
This magnificent statue, known as a lamassu, once guarded the entrance to Ashurnasirpal II's palace. With its lion's body, bird's wings, and human head, it exemplifies ancient Assyrian artistry and served as a protective deity.
On display in Room 6a
Map of the World and the Flood Tablet, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), 700-500 B.C.
This clay tablet is the oldest known map of the world, featuring cuneiform script. It intriguingly connects to the story of Noah's Ark, as it includes references to a great mountain and a vessel, suggesting cultural narratives that resonate through history.
On display in Room 55
Lion Hunt Panel from the North Palace of Ashurbanipal, Assyria (Northern Iraq), 645-635 B.C.
This detailed relief showcases King Ashurbanipal's prowess as a lion hunter, a symbol of his strength and kingship. The artwork reflects the dynamic representation of royal power, contrasting with the static depictions of previous rulers.
On display in Room 10
Parthenon Marbles, Greece, 447-432 B.C.
Once part of the Parthenon, these marbles depict scenes from the Panathenaic festival, celebrating the goddess Athena. Their journey to the British Museum has sparked ongoing debates about cultural heritage and ownership.
On display in Room 18
The Rosetta Stone, Egypt, 196 B.C.
This key artifact unlocked the understanding of Egyptian hieroglyphs. It features the same decree inscribed in three languages, enabling scholars to decode ancient texts and significantly advancing the study of Egyptology.
On display in Room 4
Lindow Man, England, 2 B.C.-119 A.D.
The remarkably preserved body of Lindow Man was discovered in a peat bog, providing insights into ancient rituals and practices. His preservation offers a unique glimpse into the past, highlighting the mysteries surrounding his death.
On display in Room 50
Townley Diskobolos, Roman, second century A.D.
This Roman marble copy of a Greek original captures the athletic form in motion. It exemplifies the artistic techniques of the time, showcasing the skill involved in replicating classical sculptures.
On display in Room 1
Sutton Hoo Helmet, England, early 600s A.D.
This helmet, discovered in a royal burial site, represents the sophistication of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship. Its ornate design and materials reflect the cultural richness of the period.
On display in Room 41
Lintel 24, The Yaxchilán Lintels, Mayan (Mexico), 723-726 A.D.
This lintel depicts a powerful Mayan woman engaging in a bloodletting ritual, showcasing the significance of women in Mayan society and the intricate artistry of their ceremonial practices.
On display in Room 27
Ancestor Figure Moai, Easter Island, Polynesia, c. 1000-1200 A.D.
This towering basalt figure represents the spirit of a revered ancestor, reflecting the cultural significance of lineage and spirituality among the Rapa Nui people.
On display in Room 24
The Sloane Astrolabe, England, 1290-1300
This astrolabe symbolizes the evolution of timekeeping technology, bridging ancient astronomical knowledge with the development of modern clocks.
On display in Room 1
The David Vases, Yuan Dynasty, China, 1351
These exquisite altar vases are celebrated for their artistry and historical significance, marking the development of blue-and-white porcelain in China.
On display in Room 95
Miniature Tabernacle and Case, Flanders (modern-day Belgium), 1510-1525
This intricately designed tabernacle serves as a personal devotional aid, showcasing the artistic skill and religious dedication of the period.
On display in Room 2a
Afro-Portuguese Salt Cellar, Benin (modern-day Nigeria), c. 1525-1600
This beautifully carved ivory salt cellar exemplifies the rich artistic traditions of Benin and the cultural exchanges between Africa and Europe during the 16th century.
On display in Room 25
Samurai Armor, Japan, 18th Century
This ceremonial armor, crafted during Japan's Edo period, reflects the artistry and cultural significance of samurai traditions, designed more for display than battle.
On display in Room 93