A History of the World in 100 Objects

Explore the historical context and societal functions of the Lewis Chessmen. Discover the origins of chess and the symbolism of the pieces. Learn about the trade connections between Norway and Scotland. Uncover the power and emotions of the game. Unveil the influence of medieval bishops and their military campaigns.

Discover the historical importance of pottery through Kilwa pot sherds found on an East African beach, showcasing trade connections between East Africa, India, and China. Explore the interconnectedness of trade and culture in the Indian Ocean and the thriving port city of Kilwa. Learn about the trade connections of Kilwa in the medieval period and the significance of traditional African pottery in Indian Ocean trade.

Explore the significance of the Borobudur Buddha head and its impact on Javanese civilization. Learn about the trade routes that brought Buddhism to Southeast Asia and the transformative experience of visiting Borobudur. Delve into the Raffles collection and the serene depiction of the stone head of Buddha. Reflect on the rich history and seaborne contact of Java, and experience the transformative power of climbing the terraces of Borobudur.

Explore the significance of a Japanese bronze mirror as it tells the story of the Heian period, a moment of great cultural awakening in Japan. Learn about the isolationist period in the 9th century, the influence of Chinese culture, and the development of Japanese literature. Discover the obsession with beauty and the role of Lady Murasaki in capturing the complexities of aristocratic society during the medieval Heian period.

This podcast explores the medieval world and the connections between war, trade, and faith. The focus is on a glass beaker associated with the miracles of a Christian saint, Hedwig. It discusses the involvement of Islamic glass workers, the port city of Acre, the Crusades, and the flourishing trade during that time. The podcast also explores the use of delicate glass beakers as chalices, the rise of women saints, and the trade between Europe and the Middle East.

Discover the epic story behind the Viking treasure hoard found in Yorkshire, including over 600 coins from as far away as Afghanistan and Iraq. Learn about Viking trade routes, the influence of the Vikings in England, and the formation of the kingdom. Unravel clichés about the Vikings and delve into the history of England in the 10th century.

This podcast explores life in medieval royal courts around the world. In this episode, they focus on Tang Dynasty in China and the practice of writing obituaries. They discuss ceramic tomb figures found in the tomb of a Tang general and the growing ambitions of the dynasty. The enduring power of obituaries is also explored.

Learn about the significance of a bronze statue of Tara, a Buddhist divinity, from Sri Lanka. Discover the symbolism and craftsmanship behind the statue, as well as the cultural exchange between Buddhism and Hinduism in South India and Sri Lanka during the medieval period.

Explore life in medieval royal courts from Tang China to the Maya in Mesoamerica. The Lothair Crystal, an engraved rock crystal, tells the biblical story of Susanna and depicts royal intrigue. Learn about the court of King Lothair and the role of justice portrayed in this exquisite work of art.

Explore life and intrigue in the great courts of the world during the medieval period. Discover the reality of life in the harem and how it compares to the sensual fantasy. Learn about the conditions and qualifications for women in the harem. Unveil the opulence and melancholy of the harem portraits and the decline of the Abbasid empire. Delve into the significance of Samara in Shia Islam and its tragic history.