Objects lead interesting lives. They are made and owned, have roles in exchange and prestige, and some arrive in museums and become displays.

This talk explores the ways in which objects contribute to an understanding of the world around us and how they both uncover and shape history. Specifically, Alexandra Green will look at two projects based on the Southeast Asian collections at the British Museum: the recent Burma to Myanmar exhibition and current research into eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Javanese shadow puppets. Although materially and culturally separate, the artworks demonstrate the major roles that objects play in making history.

Light refreshments will be served at the basement foyer from 6pm. This talk is free. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.