THE BRITISH MUSEUM is one of the world's greatest treasure houses. It is also one of its most respected academic institutions. Founded in 1753, the Museum exists to illuminate the histories of cultures, for the benefit of present and future generations, by preserving, presenting, enhancing and researching the unique collections in its care. This book looks at the history and work of the Museum and, drawing on objects in its collections, offers an introduction to the world's rich and diverse cultural heritage.
As one of the world's greatest museums approaches its 250th anniversary, the British Museum has undertaken a massive development programme, largely facilitated by the removal of the British Library from Bloomsbury. The Great Court, commissioned by the British Museum from Norman Foster and Partners following a prestigious architectural competition, is at the centre of plans to position the Museum for the new millennium and to present it as a great new civic space. A 6100 square metre glass canopy will cover the new cultural plaza that has been designed around the dome of the famous Round Reading Room. A link between the Museum's important architectural history and building design of the future, the Great Court project is destined to be one of the great architectural sights of Europe. "The Great Court" explores the ceation of a unique "urban room", the impetus for and background to the project, the competition, the complex design and construction processes, the role of the Museum in London and in the future. This book will be published to mark the opening of The Great Court at the British Museum, but will stand alone as an informative and accessible introduction to the concept of the Great Court and to the architecture itself.
