Gallery Case Study
Japanese Galleries - British Museum
Client
British Museum Great Russell Street Bloomsbury London WC1B 3DG
Photography: British Museum
Japanese Galleries - British Museum
The British Museum has refurbished some of its most popular galleries, The Mitsubishi Corporation Japanese Galleries, displaying highlights from the museum’s extensive Japanese collections, one of the most comprehensive outside of Japan.
RFK’s design shows major enhancements to the gallery’s environment, circulation and infrastructure, with improved displays of some 430 artworks and archaeological artefacts dating from ancient prehistory to the present day,
Through the design and display, these objects tell many of the significant stories about Japan’s past and how it has interacted with the wider world encouraging visitors to enjoy a deeper engagement with its present and the future.
Several major new acquisitions are on display in the galleries for the first time. The centrepiece being the newly-acquired Edo period set of Samurai armour.
Another new acquisition greets visitors on their arrival: ‘Time Waterfall’ by Miyajima Tatsuo is a contemporary artwork which consists of randomly generated digital numbers which tumble down and LED panel. This mesmerising work reminds us that life is constantly changing.
The newly refurbished galleries will now allow for a deeper understanding of a fascinating culture and an important country, and ensure the display remains lively and engaging, attracting repeat visits.