Above: Objects from the Americas.
Click on any of the images below to see a larger version of the
object and find out more about it.
Facing the day
In the centre the gallery starts with a familiar theme. Everyday
objects such as combs, pots for cosmetics and spoons represent
activities at the beginning of the day. Grouped according to their
function, the cross-cultural display presents the diversity of
form.
Cloak of identity
Through our clothing we can express social status, pride in
heritage or religious belief. You will see seven historical
outfits, including the huge robes of African leaders and the
distinctive garments of a Zoroastrian bride from Iran. A Kiowa
battle dress made in 2007 demonstrates the continuity of ceremonial
life within North American indigenous communities.
From cradle to grave
Key possessions from each of the four regions mark important
life events from birth to marriage and finally death. The common
theme of childhood is explored through the cradles, toys and
children’s garments on display. The variety of objects associated
with death and commemoration, from a Turkish tomb cover to the
funerary paper offerings from Singapore, illustrates the different
cultural ideas about the afterlife across the world.
Africa
The Africa case shows personal and shared belongings such as
textiles from Nigeria and South African beadwork. The exhibit also
includes wooden carvings which have been used to celebrate and
connect the ancestors to the living world.
Americas
The Americas case considers the continuities and contrasts
between the indigenous cultures of the Great Plains and those of
the Southwest. Pride in cultural heritage and ceremonial life are
revealed through traditional and contemporary crafts and
belongings.
Asia
The Asia case highlights the importance of family to social
life. The objects on display represent wedding traditions in India,
Indonesia and China. Dowry boxes and anniversary gifts demonstrate
the significance of marriage beyond the wedding ceremony.
Middle East
In the Middle Eastern case you can find out about how Turkmen
women communicated their status or what it means to an Omani man to
wear a dagger. A section on religious life focuses on Islam as the
faith of the majority of the people in this region.
Interactives
Developed for a family audience, children and adults together
are invited to get hands-on with a range of fun interactives in
this gallery. The youngest can enjoy spinning the drums in ‘Power
Dressing’ to match up outfits from around the world. Or come and
test your senses in ‘What’s Cooking’! At the heart of the gallery,
in the game ‘People and Possessions’, children, women and men from
the Americas to Asia talk about their special relationship with an
object.
Above: Power dressing game and costumes in
the gallery.