By Maria Bregman
The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire in history, spanning from China to Eastern Europe at its peak in the 13th and 14th centuries. Its founder, Genghis Khan, is one of the most influential figures in world history, whose legacy still resonates today. But who was he, and how did he shape the world we live in?
A new exhibition at the British Museum in London, titled “The Mongol Khan: Genghis and His Heirs”, aims to answer these questions and more. The exhibition, which runs from November 25, 2023 to April 15, 2024, showcases over 200 objects from the Mongol Empire, many of which have never been seen outside of Mongolia.
The exhibition is divided into four sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the Mongol Empire: its origins, its expansion, its administration, and its legacy. The first section explores the nomadic culture and traditions of the Mongols, who lived in the vast steppes of Central Asia. The second section traces the rise of Genghis Khan, who united the warring tribes under his rule and launched a series of conquests that created the empire. The third section examines the governance and diversity of the empire, which encompassed various religions, languages, and peoples. The fourth section reveals the impact and influence of the Mongols on the world, from trade and diplomacy to art and science.
Some of the highlights of the exhibition include a rare portrait of Genghis Khan, painted by a Chinese artist in the 14th century; a gold-plated silver belt buckle, depicting a dragon and a phoenix, symbols of power and harmony; a silk robe, embroidered with Buddhist motifs, worn by a Mongol princess; a leather quiver, decorated with silver and coral, used by a Mongol archer; a jade cup, inscribed with a poem by the Persian poet Hafez, given as a gift by a Mongol ruler; and a world map, drawn by a Korean cartographer in the 15th century, showing the extent of the Mongol Empire.
The exhibition is curated by Dr. Oyuntuya Oyunjargal, a Mongolian historian and archaeologist, who has spent years researching the Mongol Empire and its legacy. She says that the exhibition aims to challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions about the Mongols, who are often portrayed as barbaric and ruthless invaders. She argues that the Mongols were also sophisticated and tolerant rulers, who fostered cultural exchange and innovation across Eurasia.
“The Mongol Empire was not only about war and destruction, but also about peace and prosperity,” she says. “The Mongols created a global network of communication and commerce, which connected different regions and civilizations. They also promoted religious freedom and diversity, which allowed for artistic and intellectual flourishing. The Mongols left a lasting imprint on the world, and we can still see their influence today in many aspects of our culture and society.”
The exhibition is supported by the Mongolian Ministry of Culture, the Mongolian Embassy in London, and the Mongolian Cultural Foundation. It is also part of the UK-Mongolia Year of Culture 2023, which marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The exhibition is expected to attract thousands of visitors, who will have a rare opportunity to learn more about the Mongol Empire and its legacy. The exhibition is also accompanied by a catalogue, a podcast, and a series of events and activities, such as lectures, workshops, and performances.
The Mongol Khan: Genghis and His Heirs is a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in history, culture, and art. It is a unique chance to discover the fascinating story of the Mongols, who shaped the world we live in.