News

Dorset Museum is one of a number of major institutions across Europe lending objects to a major exhibition at the British Museum, opening on 17 February 2022.

The world of Stonehenge (17 February – 17 July 2022) is the UK’s first-ever major exhibition on the story of Stonehenge, and will see over 430 objects brought together from across Europe in a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle on the history – and mystery – of the ancient monument. Dorset joins its Wessex Museums Partners, Wiltshire and Salisbury Museum, who are both lending a significant number of objects to the exhibition.

Dorset Museum is lending 17 objects dating from the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, most importantly the Clandon Barrow burial assemblage, which was excavated in 1882 by antiquarian Edward Cunnington just west of Maiden Castle in Winterborne St Martin. The assemblage includes a gold incised lozenge, and other burial goods including a shale macehead, amber cup and bronze dagger.

Elizabeth Selby, Interim Director of Dorset Museum says Dorset Museum holds archaeological objects of international significance in its collection, and we are delighted to be lending a number of objects for display in this extraordinary exhibition. We are looking forward to welcoming Dr Neil Wilkin to the Museum in May to speak about the objects, themes and stories contained within the exhibition, and what they tell us about the world of Stonehenge.

Dr Neil Wilkin, lead curator of The World of Stonehenge, will be speaking about the exhibition in a lecture at Dorset Museum on 19 May 2022. Tickets are available from the Museum’s website now.

The World of Stonehenge – A major exhibition on Stonehenge featuring 430 objects and artefacts displayed at the British Museum from 17 February to 17 July 2022.