A History of the World in 100 Objects

This podcast explores the evolution of visual representations in religions, focusing on the development of the classic seated image of the Buddha. It discusses the historical context of Gandhara and the symbolism behind the seated Buddha sculpture, depicting the Buddha in his enlightened state.

Discover the intriguing history of a silver pepper pot buried as part of a hoard, reflecting the elite's appetite for luxury goods in Roman Britain. Explore the Romans' fascination with pepper and its impact on their opulent menus. Uncover the significance of the Hoxne horde and the dangers faced by the wealthy during times of instability.

Learn about the Admonitions Scroll, an ancient Chinese painting that offers insights into the behavior of powerful women in the Chinese court. Explore the themes of vanity and disappointment in the painting. Discover a poem criticizing the misuse of power by the emperor's wife and the moral purpose of the painting. Delve into the creation and significance of the painting, highlighting the importance of humility and traditional gender roles for women. Explore the role of advisors to powerful leaders and the dynamics of their relationship.

Explore the ancient ball game in central America with a heavy stone belt as the ceremonial object. Learn about the rules of the game and its religious connections. Discover the history and cultural significance of the game in Mesoamerican cultures and its impact on collective identity.

Discover the history of Native American pipe smoking, including its role in ceremonies and religious practices. Explore the burial practices and cultural artifacts of farming communities in middle America, including the discovery of a 2000-year-old otter-shaped tobacco pipe. Learn about the religious and spiritual importance of pipes in a specific culture, their connection to rituals and responsibilities, and their role as spirit guides or totems for the smokers.

Explore the sexual climate of ancient Rome through the Warren Cup, a Roman silver cup featuring explicit images of homosexuality. Discover why the cup was banned in America and how it became one of the British Museum's famous objects. Historians Bettany Hughes and James Davidson provide insights into Roman sexuality and the influence of Greek culture. Learn about the craftsmanship and significance of the Warren Cup, and its role in shaping society's perception and representation of homosexuality.

This podcast explores the powerful rulers of 2000 years ago, including Augustus, whose image is brilliantly depicted in a larger than life bronze head. The episode discusses his enlarged Roman Empire and his methodology. It also touches on the influence and propaganda surrounding Augustus, as well as an upcoming episode on the daily lives of ordinary people during the Pax Romana.

Explore the practice of giving luxury gifts in Imperial China and the significance of a Chinese Han lacquer cup. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and intricate decoration of this valuable gift. Learn about the process of making lacquer cups and how they fostered a sense of community. Dive into the intricate bureaucracy and craftsmanship behind the production of the cup. Delve into the link between craft production and state administration, drawing parallels to the current economic system in China.

Explore the captivating story of the Rosetta Stone, its use by Greek rulers in Egypt, and the rivalry between the British and the French. Discover how the trilingual decree on the stone unlocked ancient Egypt's mysteries, and led to the deciphering of hieroglyphics. Dive into the history of Egypt with foreign rulers and the fascinating contest that cracked the code. This episode sets the stage for the next focus on the Han dynasty in China.

The history of the world as told through objects at the British Museum arrives in India over 2000 years ago. Throughout this week Neil MacGregor is exploring the lives and methods of powerful new leaders. Today he looks at how the Indian ruler Ashoka turned his back on violence and plunder to promote the ethical codes inspired by Buddhism. He communicated to his vast new nation through a series of edicts written on rocks and pillars. Neil tells the life story of Ashoka through a remaining fragment of one of his great pillar edicts and considers his legacy in the Indian sub-continent today. Amartya Sen and the Bhutanese envoy to Britain, Michael Rutland, describe what happened when Buddhism and the power of the state come together. Producer: Anthony Denselow