Celts: art and identity

Event location: British Museum. Ongoing event.

Come on a journey tracing what it means to be Celtic. The more you look, the more you'll see¦

This is the first major exhibition to examine the full history of Celtic art and identity, and is organised in partnership with National Museums Scotland. The story unfolds over 2,500 years, from the first recorded mention of 'Celts' to an exploration of contemporary Celtic influences. Discover how this identity has been revived and reinvented over the centuries, across Britain, Europe and beyond.

Around 500 BC, the peoples first referred to as Celts lived across much of Europe north of the Alps. They made objects decorated with intricate patterns and fantastic animals, rich with hidden meanings, which were used for feasting, religious ceremonies, adornment and warfare. Over time, their distinctive abstract art style transformed and took on new influences, through Roman conquest, the spread of Christianity, shifting national politics, right up to the present. Throughout the long story of the different Celtic peoples, unique art, languages, cultures and traditions have set these communities apart.

Many objects in the exhibition provide clues to and raise questions about Celtic identity. From the depths of the River Thames come magnificent Iron Age treasures such as the Waterloo helmet and Battersea shield. Roman jewellery, early medieval manuscripts and crosses, a Liberty tea set and even a modern football shirt tell a constantly evolving British and Irish story. Major loans, such as the spectacular Gundestrup cauldron, reveal profound cultural connections with Europe.

The fascinating art and history explored in the exhibition have deep resonances for those in Britain, Ireland and the global Celtic diaspora today, influencing everything from sport to spirituality.

When Can I Go?

24 September 2015 - 31 January 2016

How Does It Work?

You will receive an email confirmation with a voucher attached. Please print this voucher and present it to the venue for access to the exhibition.

Where do I go?

Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery (located in Room 30)

British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

Good To Know

Image credit for Battersea shield:

The Battersea shield. Iron Age, c. 350-50 BC. Found in the River Thames, London, England. (C) The Trustees of the British Museum.

Image credit for Monifieth cross:

Slab of grey sandstone with a cross on one side. From Monifieth, Angus, Scotland, c. AD 700-800. National Museums Scotland.

Cancellation Policy

No refunds or exchange available after purchase.

Cast

Organised with National Museums Scotland

Supported by

In memory of Melvin R Seiden

Sheila M Streek

Stephen and Julie Fitzgerald

Fund for the Future donors