The British Museum is currently hosting an exhibition called Silk Roads that showcases the interconnectedness of Asia, Europe, and north Africa over a thousand years ago. This exhibition takes visitors on a journey along the ancient trade routes that connected these regions, allowing for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
As you walk through the exhibition, you are transported to different parts of the world, from the deserts of China to the oases of Afghanistan. You see artifacts like a clay camel from eighth-century China, carrying bolts of silk that were highly sought after. The exhibition also features Buddhist art treasures from Mogao, China, and a clay statue of a Buddha from Bamiyan, Afghanistan.
One of the key lessons from the exhibition is that the Silk Roads were not just about trade but also about the exchange of religions, artistic ideas, and cultural practices. The exhibition showcases how different cultures intertwined and influenced each other, leading to the creation of unique art forms and artifacts.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the section on the Sogdians, a civilization that is often overlooked in history books. The Sogdian treasures on display, including a mural with white horses and an ornate clay ossuary, shed light on a civilization that was vibrant and creative but eventually disappeared by the 12th century.
The exhibition also touches on the role of nomads in facilitating trade along the Silk Roads. A Tang statue depicting horses shows the importance of these animals in trade between China and the nomadic peoples of central Asia. Additionally, the exhibition features artifacts that highlight the global connections of regions like Sweden and Britain during ancient times.
Overall, Silk Roads is a captivating exhibition that challenges the notion of isolated civilizations and highlights the interconnectedness of the ancient world. It is a reminder that borders are fluid, and cultures have always been in constant dialogue with each other. If you are in London, be sure to visit the British Museum to experience this mesmerizing show that redefines world history.