Expert Insight into The Roman Empire Exhibition

Artefacts on display as part of the amazing Romans exhibition
(All images taken with permission of Norfolk Museum Service)

Jon Maxwell

Dr. John Davies

On Tuesday 4th March, Norwich Community History Club members were privileged to have a visit to the fabulous Roman Empire Exhibition, led by Dr. John Davies (Chief Curator of Norwich Castle Museum) and Jon Maxwell, Head of the Norfolk Museums Service display team. 

It was a real privilege to have such expert insight into an exhibition such as this - the largest ever UK exhibition of Roman artefacts on loan from the British Museum. Dr. Davies began by talking to the whole group and setting the exhibition in its historical and archaeological context. Among other things, he explained how the Roman Empire was, "successful in uniting people from a variety of cultures in a unique way." 

This excellent introduction was then followed by him leading groups around the exhibition itself. Meanwhile, Jon Maxwell explained the complex coordination, teamwork and negotiation involved in putting an exhibition like this together. Talking to club members afterwards, we were all amazed at how much work, thought and skill goes into what is, after all, a temporary exhibition (finishing on April 27th). 

As one of our members said in their feedback following the visit...
"The exhibition really exceeded my expectations. I would like to go back there by myself."

I would agree that it really is worth visiting and if you haven't done so already, go and see it for yourself (details can be viewed via the live link in the first paragraph of this article). 

Our thanks go to the Norwich Castle Museum Education Team for enabling our visit in the first instance, and, of course, to the two Jo(h)ns for making it such a special experience. Thanks!

~ Colin Howey ~