The exhibition originated from a popular radio programme of the BBC hosted by Neil MacGregor, the director of the British Museum at the time, telling the story of human civilisation using 100 objects selected from the encyclopedic collections of the British Museum. Unlike traditional narratives that focus on selected periods or cultural zones, this exhibition reviews the common stories of human development in a new perspective. Tracing human activity from 2 million years ago to the present, the stories behind the objects reveal how mankind in various areas and cultures shared similar aspirations and development in aspects of power, belief, art, trading and technology. Through this broadened vision, visitors may gain new inspiration about the world we live.

Exhibits are selected from various geographical areas, showing man-made objects, not only exquisite art pieces, but a larger proportion being daily utensils and implements, currency, scientific instruments and ritual items that have been used. Highlights include the first human stone tool from Africa, the evidence of first city from Iraq's The Standard of Ur, Fifty Manillas involved in the slave trade, Ship's Chronometer from HMS Beagle of Darwin's world voyage, Japanese artist Hokusai's famous woodblock printUnder the Wave off Kanagawa from the series "36 Views of Mt Fuji", and the issue of LGBT rights conveyed in the work of David Hockney, a famous contemporary artist. Each object tells a story that invites you to travel in time and to a curious corner of the world.

The Docent

English-speaking docent, Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Time: RAS group gathers at 10.00am at box office lobby. Tour begins 10.15

Admission RAS members and guest free of charge

Booking: Please email membership@royalasiaticsociety.org.hk in advance to reserve your place and pay at the door