Introduction to the Ashmolean Museum The Ashmolean Museum (Oxford, United Kingdom) is a renowned institution that houses an extensive collection of art and archaeological artifacts. Established in 1683, it is considered Britain's first public museum and the oldest university museum in the world. The Ashmolean Museum is located on Beaumont Street in Oxford, England, and is part of the University of Oxford.
The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
Introduction to the Ashmolean Museum
The
Ashmolean Museum (Oxford, United Kingdom) is a renowned institution that houses an extensive collection of art and archaeological artifacts. Established in 1683, it is considered Britain's first public museum and the oldest university museum in the world. The Ashmolean Museum is located on Beaumont Street in Oxford, England, and is part of the University of Oxford.
Collections at the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum boasts a diverse collection that spans various periods and cultures. Some notable collections include:
- Egyptian Art: The museum has an impressive collection of Egyptian art, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other funerary objects.
- Classical Antiquities: This collection features Greek and Roman sculptures, pottery, and coins.
- Asian Art: The museum houses a vast array of Asian art, including Chinese ceramics, Japanese prints, and Islamic metalwork.
- Western European Art: This collection includes paintings, drawings, and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Highlights of the Ashmolean Museum
Among the many treasures at the Ashmolean Museum, some notable highlights include:
- The Alfred Jewel: A 9th-century Anglo-Saxon artifact made of gold and enamel, adorned with a large sapphire.
- The Greek Kouros: A life-sized marble statue of a young man, dating back to around 540 BCE.
- The Raphael Cartoons: Full-scale designs for tapestries by the Italian master Raphael, created in the early 16th century.
Visiting the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Admission is free, but some temporary exhibitions may require a paid ticket. The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and other educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Conclusion
The Ashmolean Museum (Oxford, United Kingdom) is an essential destination for art and archaeology enthusiasts. Its diverse collections and numerous highlights provide a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of various civilizations throughout history. To learn more about the museum and its offerings, visit
the Ashmolean Museum's website.
The Alfred Jewel,
The Lantern of the Dead,
The Greek Kouros, and
The Raphael Cartoons are all part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection. To learn more about these artworks, visit their respective pages on ArtsDot.com: