In late 2011, I had three hours to explore the British Museum before leaving London for Hatfield (of all places)! I had to choose what I wanted to see while trying to ignore the mind boggling amount of treasures which were entering my field of view as I was walking around the place. But in the end it was a truly unforgettable experience, and here are some of the most exciting exhibits I saw with my own two eyes (still find it hard to believe) that autumn day. Each topic links to the relevant page in the British Museum website should one want to explore more.
Not any more pictures in the pages of History books, these are the real ones. Especially relevant are the ones on the left side: the bull seals, and still un-deciphered symbols in a row.
2. The Rosetta stone
Arguably the most visited exhibit in the museum. What chance that such a thing exists to help future generations decipher a long-lost script? If only such a thing existed for the Indus Valley script!
A sublime declaration from one of the greatest men ever to have lived.
4. Zodiac series of mohurs by Jahangir
For all Bengali children who grew up on Feluda stories ... "Jahangirer swarna-mudra"
5. Gold coin from 8th century Bengal
This was the toughest to trace back in the British Museum website. My guess is that this was issued by Ananda Dev of Banga and Samatat (reference).
