Abstract
The paper considers the influence of Empire at the Victoria and Albert Museum,
with particular reference to the display of collections from the Indian Sub-
Continent in the late 20th century. It offers an analysis of the discursive practices
of the Museum drawing on postcolonial theoretical positions, in particular Said’s
concept of ‘Orientalism’. Questions are posed regarding the extent to which the
Museum has adequately addressed and reflected Britain’s transformation from
an imperial power to a post-colonial, multicultural society, and the need to
articulate shared histories and strategies of inclusion.
with particular reference to the display of collections from the Indian Sub-
Continent in the late 20th century. It offers an analysis of the discursive practices
of the Museum drawing on postcolonial theoretical positions, in particular Said’s
concept of ‘Orientalism’. Questions are posed regarding the extent to which the
Museum has adequately addressed and reflected Britain’s transformation from
an imperial power to a post-colonial, multicultural society, and the need to
articulate shared histories and strategies of inclusion.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 63-79 |
| Number of pages | 17 |
| Journal | Museum and Society |
| Volume | 8 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| Publication status | Published - Jul 2010 |