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

Evolution of the British Museum's Collection

The British Museum is transforming its collection through various acquisition methods, including donations, bequests, purchases, and commissions.

Notably, the museum recently received a £1bn donation of Chinese treasures from the Sir Percival David Foundation, featuring a pair of 14th-century Yuan dynasty David vases and a 1,000-year-old Ru ware bowl stand.

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

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

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

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