Events
UNITED KINGDOM
EDINBURGH
Amazing Amber
This exhibition brings together a collection which blurs the borders of archaeology, art, biology and geology. With pieces from around the globe the focus is on the various uses of amber – in magic, religion and jewellery .
The National Museum of Scotland +44 (0) 300 123 6789
(www.nms.ac.uk).
From 10 May until 8 September.
GLASGOW
'This Unrivalled Collection': The Hunterian's first catalogue
To mark the 200th anniversary of the creation of the Hunterian Museum's first catalogue, created by collector, dealer and author Captain James Laskey, the museum is reuniting key items in its collection that were once displayed together. Its highlights include a cast of the Rosetta Stone, a Renaissance shield and insect cabinets.
Hunterian Art Gallery
+44 (0) 141 330 4221
(www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian).
Until 11 August.
LONDON
'Of Exceptional and Outstanding Merit'
In honour of Lady Barber referring to the Wallace Collection as the benchmark of quality, this exhibition borrows from the Barber Collection a selection of key items that relate to major pieces in the Wallace Collection. These will include an Ancient Greek helmet and a
14th-century French ivory casket.
The Wallace Collection
+44 (0) 207 563 9500
(www.wallacecollection.org).
From 22 May until 1 September.
Highlights from the world of Sutton Hoo, AD 300–1100
In preparation for the opening of a new gallery, artefacts dating from the end of the Roman Empire to the Norman Conquest are on show in Room 2. Among these are some of the wonderful finds from the Sutton Hoo burial in Suffolk, along with other contemporary objects from across Europe and beyond.
The British Museum
+44 (0) 20 7323 8181
(www.britishmuseum.org).
Until late 2013.
Piranesi's Paestum: Master Drawings Uncovered
One of the most celebrated etchers and painters of Classical scenes, both mythical and inspired by the Grand Tour, Piranesi created around 21 drawings of the temples at Paestum, of which 18 are extant (one is shown below). With loans from Paris and Amsterdam, this exhibition puts all these drawings together for the first time. Their artistic value as well as their influence on architects' and artists' understanding of the Classical world is examined here.
Sir John Soane's Museum
+44 (0) 207 405 2107
(www.soane.org). Until 18 May.
Project Space: Ruins in Reverse
In collaboration with the Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI) in Peru, Tate Modern is exploring the connection between archaeological ruins and discarded urban scenes. With works by Rä di Martino, Pablo Hare, José Carlos Martinat, Haroon Mirza, Eliana Otta and Amalia Pica, the blurred boundaries of fiction
and reality are explored.
The Tate Britain
+44 (0) 207 887 8888
(www.tate.org.uk). Until 24 June.
NORFOLK
Houghton Revisited
Houghton Hall, the Norfolk home of Britain's first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, will, for a short time, once again be hung with its original fine collection of Old Master paintings, for which the house was designed. These were sold to Catherine the Great in 1799 but are now back, on loan from the Hermitage. Among the 60 paintings are masterpieces by Van Dyck, Poussin, Albani, Rubens, Rembrandt, Velazquez, and Murillo.
Houghton Hall
+44 (0) 1603 598 640
(www.houghtonrevisited.com).
From 11 May until 29 September.
UNITED STATES
MALIBU, California
Sicily: Art and Invention between Greece and Rome
Sicily's reputation as a crossroads of the Mediterranean is well earned. In this exhibition 150 objects, from 5th-century BC Greek occupation through to the later Roman presence, are displayed to give an insight into the athletic, military, religious and daily life in this culturally rich colony.
The Getty Villa +1 (0) 31 04 40 73 00 (www.getty.edu). Until 19 August.
BOSTON, Massachusetts
Samurai! Armor from the Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Collection
This is a rare chance to see an exhibition dedicated to the evolution and artistry of highly decorated Samurai armour (right)and weaponry. With over 140 exhibits dating from the 12th to 19th centuries AD, the life and culture of these legendary warriors, a military elite led by shoguns, or warlords, of Japan. Highlights include impressive helmets made of lacquered metal and a wide range other artefacts in the exhibition made of gold, silver, wood, fur
and bronze.
Museum of Fine Arts Boston
+1 (0) 61 72 67 93 00
(www.mfa.org). Until 4 August.
NEW YORK, New York
Search for the Unicorn
Known collectively as the 'Unicorn Tapestries', these seven hangings are considered among the finest existing works from the late Middle Ages. Probably French in origin, they were an inaugural gift for the Cloisters, from John D Rockefeller when they opened in 1938. This exhibition draws together related works to explore the elusive symbolism of the unicorn and how it relates to Christian metaphors.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
+001 (0) 21 25 35 77 10
(www.metmuseum.org).
From 15 May until 18 August.
Temple and Tomb: Prehistoric Malta, 3600-2500 BCE
The Late Temple Period (circa 3600-2500 BC) saw an emergence of a rich prehistoric culture on Malta, which produced a whole range of material remains, from megalithic complexes to finely tooled human figurines. Through sculptures in stone and clay, decorative architectural reliefs, historic drawings, watercolours, and photographs, the architectural and aesthetic achievements of this under-represented culture are displayed.
Institute for the Study of the Ancient World, New York University
+001 (0) 21 29 92 78 00
(www.isaw.nyu.edu).
Until 7 July.
WASHINGTON, DC
Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes, 1909–1929: When Art Danced with Music
The Ballets Russes was one of the most innovative dance companies of the 20th century. Its collaborators included artists, composers and designers, such as Picasso, Stravinsky and Coco Chanel. This multimedia installation brings together 135 original costumes, set designs, paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings, photographs, posters, and film clips in a show which has originated at the V&A, London. Some of its most famous ballets –
the costumes (above), sets and even the choreography – were inspired by scenes found on ancient Greek vases.
The National Gallery of Art
+1 (0) 20 27 37 42 15
(www.nga.gov).
From 12 May until 2 September.
Albrecht Dürer Watercolors and Drawings from the Albertina
With a loan of almost all of the watercolours and drawings by Dürer from the Albertina in Vienna, this is a rare chance in the USA to see 118 works by one of the finest German artists. The exhibition is divided into 14 themes highlighting Dürer's skill as a draftsman. Many of his subjects are historical and mythical events from the Classical world (below).
The National Gallery of Art
+1 (0) 202 737 42 15
(www.nga.gov). Until 9 June.
AUSTRALIA
MELBOURNE
Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures
The near-miraculous story of how more than 230 priceless artefacts from the National Museum, Kabul, were hidden and saved by members of staff during the infamous looting of the museum makes the chance to see these treasures even more valuable. With finely wrought gold jewellery and other fine artefacts dating back thousands of years, this show should not be missed.
Melbourne Museum
+61 3 8341 7777 (www.museumvictoria.
com.au/melbournemuseum).
Until 28 July.
CANADA
ONTARIO
Mesopotamia
In collaboration with the British Museum, 3,000 years of history from one of the world's oldest civilisations is documented in more than 170 objects on loan to ROM. Social and technological change, as well as the rise and fall of city states, such as Sumer and Babylon, is seen in a range of artefacts including wall reliefs, sculpture (Ashurnasirpal II, 883–859 BC, above) and jewellery.
Royal Ontario Museum
+ 416 (0) 586 8000 (www.rom.on.ca). From 22 June.
CHINA
HONG KONG
Radiant Legacy : Ancient Chinese Gold from the Mengdiexuan Collection
One of the first major presentations of ancient Chinese gold to be held in Hong Kong, this show assesses the development of the role of our most prcious metal over 3,000 years. With 300 Eurasian and Chinese gold artefacts, the interaction with other cultures and development of technology and art are examined.
Art Museum at the Chinese University of Hong Kong
+852 394 374 16
(www.cuhk.edu.hk).
From 5 May until October.
FRANCE
ARLES, Bouches-du-Rhône
Rodin: The Light of the Antique
In this exhibition over 30 private loans as well as those from the Rodin Museum in Paris help to highlight the connection between the French sculptor and the Classical world. More than 250 works reflect Rodin's dialogue with the past and the strong impression that it made on him.
The Musée Départemental
Arles Antique
+33 (0) 4 13 31 51 03
(www.arles-antique.cg13.fr).
Until 1 September.
GERMANY
BERLIN
Samarra - Centre of the World. 101 Years of Archaeological Research on the Tigris
To mark a century of excavation at Samarra, an ancient city on the River Tigris, 120km north of Baghdad, the Pergamon's Museum of Islamic Art presents a range of artefacts from German museums from these early digs. With wall-paintings, stucco panelling, cut glass and lustreware this is a fascinating glimpse into life in this royal city, but also a study of changing techniques used in archaeology over the past 100 years.
The Pergamon Museum
+49 (0) 30 266 42 42 42
(www.smb.museum).
Until 26 May.
Back to the Beginnings: Treasures from Early Civilizations in the Aegean at the Collection of
Classical Antiquities
The last chance to see this small display of choice objects from the Aegean Bronze Age. Among well documented examples are lesser known and unusual artefacts including Cycladic idols, bronze statuettes and anthropomorphic terracotta figures. Dating from all periods of the Aegean Bronze Age, this is an interesting and diverse introduction to the culture.
The Altes Museum
+49 (0) 30 266 42 42 42
(www.smb.museum).
Until 7 June.
BONN
Dangerous place - crime in the Roman Empire
This show gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into crime in the Roman world, with a grisly look at human remains where deliberate injury, torture or murder are evident, along with cult practices, talismans and charms that show superstitious interpretation of these practices. Punishment and the law are also investigated in what promises to
be a rather unusual exhibition.
LVR Landesmuseum Bonn
+49 (0) 228 20700
(www.rlmb.lvr.de).
Until 18 August.
HANNOVER
Fascinating Nefertiti: Bernhard Hoetger and Egypt
A little over 100 years since the discovery of the bust of Nefertiti, this exhibition reflects on the impact on design and art from the discoveries in Amarna. With a particular focus on the expressionist artist Bernhard Hoetger, a 3-D simulation model shows the developments as a result of finds at this royal city.
Landesmuseum Hannover
+49 (0) 51 19 80 76 86
(www.landesmuseum-hannover.niedersachsen.de).
Until 25 August.
HILDESHEIM
The Power of Toga - Fashion in the Roman Empire
The focus of this display is on the toga as a symbol of power and domination. With a range of loans from across Europe, including three frescoes from Pompeii, the social and political meaning of this iconic garment is explored. There is a supporting programme of tours and workshops, along with an interactive area for younger visitors.
Roemer-und Pelizaeus Museum
+49 (0) 51 21 93 69 0
(www.machtdertoga.de).
Until 8 September.
MUNICH, Bavaria
Travel to the Underworld: Egyptian Afterlife
The subject of the Ancient Egyptian Underworld never ceases to be an attraction and the centrepiece of this show is the reconstruction of a grave chamber excavated on the West Bank at Thebes. This exhibition also includes Book of the Dead papyri, shabtis and statues representing 3,000 years of funerary history.
Museum of Egyptian Art Munich
+49 (0) 89 289 27 630
(www.aegyptisches-museum-muenchen.de).
Until 9 June.
KOREA
SEOUL
Xiongnu, the Great Empire of the Steppes -Mongolian Archaeological Excavation Result Exhibition
Brand new finds from the 2006 excavation season at Duurlig Nars and Khentii Aimag in Mongolia will be on display here, including a jade disc from Tomb No. 1. This exhibition is an introduction to the Hun tomb complex and the excavation results.
National Museum of Korea
+82 (0) 2 2077 92 93
(www.museum.go.kr).
Until 19 June 2013.
NETHERLANDS
AMSTERDAM
Coffins of the Amun Priests
In 1891 Bab el-Gasus, the hidden burial-place for the priests of the
Temple of Amun in Thebes, was discovered. This exhibition focuses on the richly decorated sarcophagi of the priests and priestesses (detail below). With loans from the Louvre and Vatican alongside 19th-century watercolours, this will be an intriguing display. There is also a chance to see conservators at work on the 3,000-year-old coffins.
Dutch National Museum of Antiquities
+31 (0) 71 51 63 163
(www.rmo.nl). Until 15 September.
SPAIN
BARCELONA
Gods and myths of antiquity. The evidence of the currency of Hispania
A close look at divinities, myths and cults of the inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula through numismatic artefacts. This exhibition is organised into three parts: Greek and Oriental Cults, Indigenous Gods, and Roman Gods up to the arrival of Visigoths.
National Museum of Catalan Art
+34 93 622 03 76 (www.mnac.cat). Until 29 September.
SWITZERLAND
ZURICH
Animals and Mythical Creatures from Antiquity to the Modern Age
With loans from leading institutions, this exhibition examines the symbolism of real and mythical creatures across time and cultures. Taking in biblical stories, Ancient Greek and Roman myths and the fantastical tales of medieval Europe, it includes sirens, griffins, centaurs, dragons and unicorns (above is a 12th-century lion reliquary) made from a wide range of materials.
Landes Museum Zurich
+41 (0) 44 218 65 11
(www.animali.landesmuseum.ch).
Until 14 July.
EVENTS
UNITED KINGDOM
London
Council for British Archaeology
Ice Age Art exhibition talk from
Dr Jill Cook
CBA members can enjoy a private view of this popular exhibition and
a talk by its curator Dr Jill Cook.
British Museum, London
10 May, 9am-11:30am
Tickets required.
(www.new.archaeologyuk.org/events)
+44 (0) 1904 671 417.
CBA Regional Group Events
The CBA works across the UK together with a network of CBA Groups. The Groups hold their own regional calendar of events, from open meetings to talks and study days giving you the chance to see archaeology in action in your local area, and to take part.
14 May
Regional – see website for details
(www.new.archaeologyuk.org/events)
+44 (0) 1904 671 417.
Institute of Classical Studies
ICLS Ancient History Seminar Series
Topics vary, see website for details.
Throughout May
Senate House
(www.events.sas.ac.uk/icls/events)
+44 (0) 207 862 8700.
King's College London
The Art of Making in Antiquity:
Final programme for the Carving Workshop with the Institute of Making
23 June, 10am-6pm
Slade School of Fine Art
(www.artofmaking.ac.uk).
Contact will.wootton@kcl.ac.uk
Croatia Archaeological Conference
Croatia at the Crossroads
This conference will examine routes and channels of communication (or lack of them) manifest through trade, technological transfer, artistic influence and conflict. Presentations from 24 archaeologists, some based in Britain, but the majority from Croatia, will feature a wide range of archaeological projects which have been conducted in Croatia over the past 20 years.
24-25 June
Admission is free but pre-registration is required.
Europe House, 32 Smith Square, London SW1P 3EU.
(www.croatiatatcrossroads.net).
Oxford
Classical Art Research Centre at the Beazley Archive
In Art, More Alive than in Reality: Imagining and Imaging Objects in Ancient Greece
CARC Special Lecture: Professor Tonio Hölscher (University of Heidelberg).
All are welcome.
21 May, 5pm
Danson Room, Trinity College, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BH
(http://www.beazley.ox.ac.uk/events)
SPAIN
Mérida
XVIIIIth International Congress of Classical Archaeology
Centre and periphery in the ancient world
13 to 17 May
National Museum of Roman Art
in Mérida
News relating to this event can be found on the webpage (www.aiac2013merida-mnar.icac.net)
TURKEY
Izmir
Theoretical Archaeology Group – Turkey Meeting
9-10 May
Presentation of papers on a range
of Turkish archaeological issues.
(NB. Papers in Turkish and English).
Ege University, Izmir
(www.biaa.ac.uk/home/images/stories/tag_turkey_cfp.pdf)
ART FAIRS
UNITED KINGDOM,
London
Art Antiques London
Now in its third year, this addition to the international art market world returns to the prestigious grounds of the Albert Memorial and Kensington Gardens, with more than 70 of the world's leading dealers. One highlight of the fair is its accompanying lecture series in which international curators and experts give talks on a range of topics.
Albert Memorial West Lawn,
Kensington Gardens, London (opposite the Royal Albert Hall)
+ 44 (0)20 7389 6555
(www.haughton.com).
From 13 to 19 June.
Masterpiece
Having rapidly established itself on the art market scene, this young fair, now in its fourth year, will no doubt prove a great success as in previous years. One highlight will be the Tomasso Brothers' stand which will pay homage to the Antique, a term used between the 15th and 18th centuries when referring to artefacts made in ancient Greece and Rome, then regarded as the ultimate aspiration and inspiration for any artists or sculptor. One such was the German sculptor Joseph Claus (1718-1788) who produced this remarkable white marble bust of the Emperor Caracalla (above), which will be on the Tomasso Brothers' stand (C2).
South Grounds, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, London, SW3 4SR
+44 (0) 20 7499 7470
(www.masterpiecefair.com).
From 27 June until 3 July.
BELGIUM
Brussels
Brussels Ancient Art Fair (BAAF)
To celebrate the 10th year of this highly successful specialist fair, an exhibition entitled Ancient Egypt: Masterpieces from Collectors and Collections will be staged, with a full catalogue to accompany it. In addition to BAAF, two other fairs will take place at the Sablon at the same time: BOAFair (Oriental Art) and BRUNEAF (Tribal Art).
Grand Sablon, Place du Grand Sablon
+ 32 (0) 475 48 36 82 (www.baaf.be).
From 6 to 10 June.
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