Indian Museum
East India Region
Established in 1814 by the Asiatic Society of Bengal, the Indian Museum in Kolkata is the ninth oldest museum globally and the largest in Asia by collection size. It houses an extensive range of artifacts including antiques, armour, ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and exquisite Mughal paintings. The museum is divided into six sections encompassing 35 galleries that cover Indian art, archaeology, anthropology, geology, zoology, and economic botany. Its collections of art and archaeology are internationally significant, preserving rare specimens from both Indian and trans-Indian origins. The museum operates autonomously under India's Ministry of Culture and continues to be a vital institution for cultural preservation and scientific study. Its founding curator was the Danish botanist Nathaniel Wallich, who initially proposed a multi-disciplinary museum concept. The museum's architecture and collections reflect a rich heritage, making it a unique destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and to allocate sufficient time to explore the extensive galleries. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to streamline entry. The museum offers concessions for students, senior citizens, and groups. Checking the official website for current exhibitions and events can enhance the visit experience. Guided tours may be available and can provide deeper insights into the collections.
Faits intéressants
- •It is the ninth oldest museum in the world and the oldest in Asia.
- •The museum holds over 35 galleries across six major sections including art, archaeology, and natural sciences.
- •Nathaniel Wallich, a Danish botanist, was the founding curator and contributed many botanical specimens.
- •The museum was originally part of the Asiatic Society of Bengal and later became an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.
- •The present building on Chowringhee Road was completed in 1875, designed by W L Granville in consultation with Sir Thomas Holland.
Histoire
The Indian Museum originated from the Asiatic Society of Bengal founded in 1784.
The museum itself was established in 1814 when Nathaniel Wallich proposed forming a museum from collections of the Society and his own botanical specimens.
Initially called the Imperial Museum of Calcutta, it grew through government support and was formally established at its current Chowringhee Road location in 1875.
The museum expanded its geological collections in the mid-19th century and became closely associated with the Geological Survey of India.
Its development was influenced by historical events including the Sepoy Mutiny and the transition of India under British Crown rule.
The museum has since evolved into a premier institution preserving India's cultural and scientific heritage.
Guide du lieu
Bharhut Gallery2nd century BCE
Features ancient Indian sculptures and relics from the Bharhut stupa, showcasing early Buddhist art and architecture.
Gandhara Gallery1st-5th century CE
Exhibits Greco-Buddhist sculptures from the Gandhara region, reflecting a unique blend of Hellenistic and Indian artistic traditions.
Paintings Gallery
Displays rare Mughal and other Indian paintings, highlighting the rich tradition of miniature and court art.
Decorative Art Gallery
Showcases a collection of ancient ornaments, weapons, and decorative items reflecting India's cultural heritage.
Coin Gallery
Houses an extensive collection of coins from different Indian dynasties, illustrating economic history and numismatics.
Textile Gallery
Features traditional Indian textiles and costumes, demonstrating the diversity of regional fabric arts.
Bird Gallery
A zoological section displaying specimens of birds native to India, highlighting biodiversity.
Botanical Gallery
Contains exhibits on economic botany, including plants of medicinal and commercial importance.
Contact
Téléphone: 033 2252 1790