The British Museum is set to receive what is being deemed the highest-value gift in UK museum history, as it acquires £1 billion worth of Chinese ceramics. This monumental donation will include around 1,700 pieces from the esteemed collection held by the Sir Percival David Foundation. Founded by British businessman Sir Percival David, who amassed these treasures from diverse locations like Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, and China, this transfer is more than just about art; it's about preserving and showcasing cultural history.
For those unfamiliar, Sir Percival David, who lived from 1892 to 1964, had always envisioned his collection serving as a means to inform and inspire the public. Since 2009, these priceless artifacts have been on loan to the museum, residing in the specially created bilingual Room 95. Visitors worldwide have been able to explore the collection through its online catalogue, making these pieces accessible to anyone with internet access.
Dr. Nicholas Cullinan, Director of the British Museum, expressed his humility and gratitude for this generous donation, highlighting the significance it adds to the museum's existing collection. He stated, "I am humbled by the generosity of the trustees of the Sir Percival David Foundation in permanently entrusting their incomparable private collection to the British Museum. These celebrated objects add a special dimension to our own collection and together offer scholars, researchers, and visitors around the world the incredible opportunity to study and enjoy the very best examples of Chinese craftsmanship anywhere in existence."
This gift will increase the British Museum's collection of Chinese ceramics to 10,000 pieces, solidifying its status as one of the most comprehensive collections of such artifacts outside of the Chinese-speaking world. Colin Sheaf, Chairman of the Sir Percival David Foundation, noted the importance of this transfer, stating it fulfills three main objectives: preserving the collection, ensuring public display, and fostering education and inspiration for future generations.
Among the highlights of this remarkable collection are the David Vases, crafted around 1351, which played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the timeline for blue and white ceramics. The collection also includes the famed chicken cup, historically used to serve wine for the Chenghua emperor, and exquisite Ru wares from the Northern Song dynasty, dating back to around 1086.
Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant expressed his delight over the acquisition, emphasizing the cultural significance of these artifacts. He mentioned, "Thanks to the huge generosity of the Sir Percival David Foundation, I am thrilled these world-famous Chinese ceramics will now be displayed permanently in the British Museum, where the collection will educate and enlighten future generations for many years to come." This acquisition, he hopes, will set a precedent and inspire similar acts of generosity.
Following their transfer to the British Museum, select pieces from this grand collection will also be loaned to the Shanghai Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, ensuring global appreciation of these stunning works.
The final transfer of ownership to the British Museum awaits confirmation from the Charity Commission. Although this donation is unprecedented for any UK museum, it is but one of several significant works the British Museum has received this year, which also includes The Revised Standard Edition of The Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud.
The significance of this donation extends beyond mere monetary value. It embodies the intersection of art, culture, and history, showcasing the rich traditions of Chinese craftsmanship to the world. With its new additions, the British Museum is not just enhancing its collection; it is solidifying its role as a pivotal institution for cultural education and appreciation.
