Burma to Myanmar

Interesting exhibition at the British Museum examining the history and material culture of Myanmar formerly Burma.

You know when an exhibition started with quite a long definition of terms that you are in for a complicated ride and this was no exception with numerous small states and kingdoms to discuss as well as British Colonial rule, independence and military rule.

I must admit I didn’t understand a lot of the nuisances so I just sat back and enjoyed the beautiful objects.  I liked the way it started by outlining the raw materials available in the country from luxury ones, such as gold and silver, rubies and lacquer to oil and now materials used in mobile phones.

I was particularly drawn to innovative types of letters including a gold letter sent to George II, a letter encased in a shell and another piece of writing in Mother of Pearl. I also loved a tiny painting by U Ba Nyan who was sent to study at the Royal College of Art in London in the 1920s.

Closed 11 February 2024


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