‘A static collection is a dead collection’: how the British Museum is acquiring for a global public

The British Museum's Evolving Collection

The British Museum is acquiring new objects for a global public through donations, bequests, purchases, and commissions, marking a departure from its past practices.

Notable acquisitions include the Yuan dynasty David vases (1351), which were part of a £1bn donation of Chinese treasures this year.

The donation furthers David’s intention that his collection “inform and inspire people”.

This record-breaking donation has expanded the museum's Chinese ceramics holdings to 10,000 pieces, solidifying its position as a premier cultural institution.

Author's summary: British Museum acquires new objects through donations.

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The Art Newspaper The Art Newspaper — 2025-10-27

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