The Life, Times and Death of Thomas Becket 13 July

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Marking the 850th anniversary of one of the most powerful figures of his times, this special exhibition at the British Museum presents Becket’s tumultuous journey from a merchant’s son to an archbishop, and from a revered saint in death to a “traitor” in the eyes of Henry Vlll more than 350 years later. The archbishop’s slaying and martyrdom transfixed the medieval world – and inspired some magnificently murderous art and artefacts that are still shocking today. The aim of the exhibit seems to be to get up close to the man, the murder and the legend through an array of objects associated with Becket such as illuminated manuscripts, some of which contain eye-witness accounts of the murder, jewellery and sacred reliquaries.

A Musical History of Modern Black Britain 21 July

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Join writer, teacher and music enthusiast, Jeffrey Boakye, in conversation about his new book Musical Truth: A Musical History of Modern Black Britain in 28 Songs. A playlist / history book with a twist, Boakye introduces key moments in Black British history through the lens of modern music. Learn about the ground-breaking musicians whose songs have changed the world and discover key moments in the Black British narrative.

Curators’ Treasures in a Castle, Palace, and Manor House 3 August

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The first places which spring to mind when wanting to see a collection of Japanese artefacts in the UK may be museums or art galleries where many treasures related to Japan have been preserved. With the aid of current digital technology, cataloguing and displaying on a digital site is gradually becoming more common, making some objects available to the public even when they might not be physically exhibited at such institutions. However, it may not be well known that these are not the only places to appreciate Japan: palaces, castles, and manor houses – historical settings where Japanese art is naturally suited – can also provide an interesting insight into the unique heritage

Netsuke: miniature masterpieces from Japan – Year round

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  • Type of event: In-Person
  • Date: Now – March 2022
  • Time:12:00pm
  • Location: Bristol museum & Art gallery
  • Meeting point: n/a
  • Cost: Free
  • Booking instructions: n/a

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has a collection of over 200 Japanese netsuke, small carvings mainly used by men to attach items to their belts. Created in the 1700s and 1800s, each netsuke is unique and they depict a huge range of subjects from Japanese popular culture.75 of these tiny masterpieces from the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery collection are featured in this exhibition