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OCT 2017–JAN 2018

Imagining the Divine Free Displays • Talks Founder’s Festival Lates • Family FunGallery Activities Courses • Music

Cover Image: Footprints of the Buddha, limestone, 2nd–3rd century, Amaravati, India © Trustees of the British Museum

OPENING TIMESTue–Sun 10am–5pmBank Holiday Mondays 10am–5pmClosed 24 & 25 December

BOOKINGIn personBuy tickets to our exhibitions, talks, events and activities at the Museum Information Desk, in advance or on the day.Tue–Sun & Bank Holidays 10am–4pm

Online ashmolean.org/ticketsSecure 24h online booking.Booking fee per transaction: £1

Telephone & Email01865 278112Tue–Sun & Bank Holidays 10am–4pmPlease leave a voicemail, or email onlinetickets@ashmus.ox.ac.uk. We aim to respond within 48hrs.Booking fee per transaction: £2

Booking feesThere is no booking fee when tickets are purchased in person from the Information Desk. Booking fees correct at the time of going to print.

ACCESSIBILITYThere is access throughout the Museum except for the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery which is regrettably only accessible by stairs due to the layout of the historic building. There are ramps into the building and lifts to all other floors. Wheelchairs are available. We can arrange free touch tours and description tours for visitors with visual impairments and those who need an accompanied visit. For more information, call 01865 278015.

SOCIALDiscover more inspiration, news and exclusive images on our social channels. @AshmoleanMuseum

Designed by Lucy Killoran.

SPECIAL EXHIBITION 4 FREE EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS 6 TALKS 8COURSES & WORKSHOPS 12GALLERY ACTIVITIES 13MUSIC 14 BIG WEEKENDS 15LIVEFRIDAY 16 LATES 17 TOURS 18 FAMILY FUN 19

CONTENTS

Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2PHTelephone: 01865 278 000www.ashmolean.org

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!The Ashmolean depends on its many supporters and donors in everything it does. Your support is important to us and has enabled us to inspire and educate a new generation of visitors. www.ashmolean.org/support

Marking the 400th anniversary of the birth of our founder Elias Ashmole, this autumn we open an exciting new gallery which tells the story of the foundation of the Ashmolean. Central to this dramatic new space is Powhatan’s Mantle, one of the most important

pieces in our founding collection. It is housed in a new case which we were able to purchase with the generous help of donations to our Annual Appeal. A huge thank you to all who contributed and to all our Friends and Members, whose support allows us to continue making the human stories behind our objects accessible for all. Join us in October for our Founder’s Festival, a whole weekend of activities celebrating our origins as the world’s first purpose built public museum.

Our new exhibition, Imagining the Divine: Art and the Rise of World Religions, is the first major exhibition to explore the visual cultures of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism as these five religions spread across Asia and Europe in the first millennium. It explores this extraordinary period

of religious experimentation when the visual identities by which we still recognise the world’s major religions were forged. The exhibition not only includes many beautiful things (including some of the earliest representations of Christ and Buddha) but also raises big questions about how different cultures have sought to make their Gods visible and how different cultures and traditions interacted with and influenced each other.

To coincide with our exhibition and to mark the beginning of the festive period November sees our OneWorld Weekend; a festival of talks, performances and activities for all ages exploring the cultural traditions of different faiths and communities, including light, music & food, and the connections between them. Make sure to check our Christmas opening hours at this busy time to get the most out of your visit. Our usual programme of free tours, talks, activities and workshops remains full of fascinating options for all, and don’t miss our newly refurbished cafe for warmth and refreshment as the year draws to a close.

Xa Sturgis, Director

AUTUMN AT THE ASHMOLEAN

The Ashmolean is the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology, opened in 1683. It is the oldest public museum in the world and has incredibly rich and diverse collections from around the globe, ranging from Egyptian mummies and classical sculpture to the Pre-Raphaelites and modern art.

4 SPECIAL EXHIBITION

Mosaic fragment depicting Christ, stone mosaic, 4th century, Hinton St Mary, Dorset © Trustees of the British Museum

In partnership with

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Exhibition ToursWednesdays, 3.30–4.15pm

Saturday TourSat 18 Nov, 11.30am & 2.30pm

Talking Religion Gallery TalksSelected dates, 12.15–1pm

Exhibition Galleries, free with the price of admission, no booking required. Visit www.ashmolean.org/imaginingthedivine for details.

For more exhibition events see pages 8–11 & 17.

EXHIBITION EVENTEVENTS

MEMBERS GET IN FREE

Footprints of the Buddha, limestone, 2nd–3rd century, Amaravati, India © Trustees of the British Museum

Book now www.ashmolean.org/imaginingthedivine

TICKETSStandard £10 (£11 inc. Gift Aid)Concessions £9 (£10 inc. Gift Aid)FREE for Ashmolean Members and under-12s Extended opening hours: 27 Oct, 17 Nov, 26 Jan & 17 Feb, until 8pm

19 October 2017–18 February 2018 This is the first major exhibition to explore the art of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism as religion spread across the world in the first millennium AD.

Today, the visual identities of these world religions are distinctive and immediately recognizable, but new research by the British Museum and University of Oxford show that that these visual identities did not develop in isolation within each individual religion. Quite the opposite. As new belief systems developed and spread across ancient empires, they shaped the appearance of their gods in reaction to the religious images they encountered; adapting, adopting or rejecting what already existed.

The exhibition includes some of the world’s oldest religious works of art such as the first known depiction of Christ north of the Alps; and some of the first surviving Qurans. Visit this fascinating show and discover how these early representations were transformed over the centuries into the familiar iconography of the modern world.

The Leverhulme Trust has generously funded the Empires of Faith research project.Exhibition supported by: The Ruddock Foundation for the Arts, The Patrons of the Ashmolean. Additional support from: The British Museum, The Oxford Centre for Byzantine Research, Wolfson College Oxford, Corpus Christi College Oxford, the Soudavar Memorial Fund, Richard and Jacqueline Worswick.

Art and the Rise of World ReligionsIMAGINING THE DIVINE

“Unmissable... a fascinating journey through the art of religions from India to Ireland“ – Mary BeardSPECIAL EXHIBITION

6 FREE DISPLAYS

Contemporary Japanese Tea Wares3 Oct 2017–Jan 2018, Gallery 36

The preparation of tea in a formal ‘ceremony’ has been practised in Japan since the 1400s. This display is one of several events organized at the Ashmolean for the international Arethé Festival, which spotlights the arts of Japanese tea today. See page 12 for information about our Japanese Ceramics and Way of Tea event.

Aksum: a Late Antique Empire of Faith in Africa26 Sep 2017–14 Jan 2018, Money Gallery

Explore the religious and ideological history of the Aksumite empire in the light of the coins produced from the late 3rd century to c. 620. The Ashmolean has a world-class collection of such coins, with a very heavy concentration of gold issues by the kings.

Old Traditions New Visions: Art in India and Pakistan after 194715 Sep 2017–18 Mar 2018, Gallery 29

After the political freedom gained in 1947, Indian and Pakistani artists faced a significant challenge to express the new nations’ distinctive character and visions. Artists sought new modes of expression, engaging with the modern European art movements but remaining oriented toward their own traditions.

Temporary displays from our vast collection, plus highlights from recent research.FREE EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS

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Curator’s TourFri 1 Dec, 2.15–3pm, Gallery 11Exhibition curator Dr Yan Liu will introduce the art and life of contemporary artist Qu Leilei. Free, booking essential.

Qu Leilei: The Stars and After SymposiumSun 24 Nov, 10.30am–4.45pm, Lecture TheatreExperts from the Ashmolean, the University of Oxford, Sotheby’s Institute of Art and the Musée Cernuschi will discuss different aspects of Qu Leilei’s painting and explore his story within the context of Chinese art history, concluding with an in conversation event with the artist himself.£20/£10, free for University of Oxford Students, booking essential.

Qu Leilei: A Chinese Artist in Britain7 Nov 2017–15 Apr 2018, Gallery 11

Contemporary Chinese artist Qu Leilei (b. 1951) was a founding member of the avant-garde ‘Stars Group’ in the late 1970s, and immigrated to England in 1985. This exhibition shows his progression from calligraphic collage to an exploration of a new vocabulary of ink language blending lively brushwork with western technique.

Francis Newton Souza (1924–2002), Christ on Palm Sunday, 1959 © Estate of F N Souza. All rights reserved, DACS 2017

Gold coin of Ezanas of Aksum, pre-Christian period, mid 340s–360 Tsujimura Shirō (b. 1947), Ido stoneware tea bowl © Tsujimura Shirō Qu Leilei (b. 1951), Friendship, 2012 © Qu Leilei

8 TALKS Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

38th Annual Barlow LectureThe Five Great Wares: Their Origins and ConnectionsWith Prof Nigel Wood, Oxford University and Westminster UniversityFri 10 Nov, 5‒6pm, Lecture TheatreTICKETS: FREE, booking essential.Sir Alan Barlow’s collection of Chinese ceramics is exceptional in including each of the prestigious ‘Five Great Wares’ of the Song Dynasty (960–1279). In this talk Nigel Wood will present the results of new research conducted in conjunction with the Palace Museum, Beijing.Booking: eastern.art@ashmus.ox.ac.uk

Annual Beauforest LectureStanley SpencerWith Dr James Fox, Art Historian, Author, BroadcasterSat 18 Nov, 12–1pm, Lecture TheatreTICKETS: FREE, booking essential.Dr James Fox explores the life and works of English artist Stanley Spencer (1891–1959).

Save the Date Annual Piper Lecture 2018Sat 6 Jan 11am–12pm, Taylorian Lecture TheatreMore information to follow in the autumn at www.ashmolean.org.

EXHIBITION EVENT

Mary Beard, Professor of Classics, Newnham College, Cambridge University

Imagining the Divine: Art and the Rise of World ReligionsWith Prof Mary Beard, Cambridge University, and Neil MacGregor, Humboldt Forum, previously Director of the British MuseumWed 17 Jan, 6–8pm, Sheldonian Theatre, OxfordTICKETS: FREE, booking essential

How did contemporary religions develop, and what relevance does the story of their evolution have today? Join Professor Mary Beard and Neil MacGregor, two of the UK’s most prominent historians, as they investigate the transition between the ancient and medieval worlds across Eurasia and Africa.

TORCH (The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities) is co-hosting this event in collaboration with the Ashmolean and the Empires of Faith research project from the British Museum and the University of Oxford.

Booking: torch.ox.ac.uk/beardmac

Join us for one of our talks on art and archaeology delivered by experts in the field.TALKS

TALKS 9Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

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Fri 17 Nov, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatrePart 3: Provence and Auvers. Provence was another Japan for Van Gogh, where he could develop his style with Japanese prints in mind. Though his mental state declined, in isolation he was able to create extraordinary images of colour.

Needlework and the Celtic Revival in Ireland c. 1888‒1922With Dr Nicola Gordon Bowe, Associate Fellow, National College of Art & Design, DublinThu 16 Nov, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreThe Celtic Revival reflected the spirit of national romanticism throughout Europe. Scholars, writers, artists and craftspeople kindled a new awareness of Ireland’s cultural heritage and native skills.

From Tang dynasty to the Teabag: What the Ashmolean’s collection says about our tea-drinking habitsWith Will Battle, Tea Taster, Author of The World Tea EncyclopaediaThu 7 Dec, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreUsing objects in the Ashmolean’s collection, embark upon a navigation of our relationship with the world’s favourite beverage and traverse tea-drinking rituals from around the world.

In the Beginning: Jewish Life in the Ancient WorldWith Rebecca Abrams, Author of The Jewish JourneyFri 8 Dec, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreWhat was Jewish life like in ancient times and where did Judaism come from? Trace the first 2000 years of Jewish history, from its earliest roots in Ancient Mesopotamia to the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Between Confrontation and Collaboration: Muslim-Christian relations in material cultureWith Prof James Allan, Oxford UniversityThu 18 Jan, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreIn medieval times there was a surprisingly constant flow of goods between Christian and Muslim communities. Explore objects made for Christian patrons within the Islamic world and more.

WEEKDAY TALKSTICKETS: £6/£5 concessions, booking essential.

Collecting CeramicsWith Phillip Smith, Mallams Fine Art Auctioneers and Prof Tim Wilson, Ashmolean MuseumWed 25 Oct, 2‒3pm, Lecture TheatreBefore the Oxford Ceramics Fair begins, the Director and Head of Design at Mallams will discuss collecting ceramics and the changing nature of the market.

Imagining the Divine: The Curator’s ViewWith Stefanie Lenk, Empires of Faith Project CuratorFri 27 Oct, 1‒2 pm, Lecture TheatreHow did iconic images of the world religions, like that of the Buddha or of Christ, come into being? An overview of the prolific phase of religious change and artistic invention across Eurasia in the first millennium.

Elias Ashmole’s attempted rehabilitation of Dr John DeeWith Tobias Churton, Scholar of Western EsotericismWed 8 Nov, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreExplore what Elias Ashmole, founder of the Ashmolean, and Dr John Dee, advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, shared in common, and what led Ashmole to attempt a rehabilitation of Dee’s reputation.

Van Gogh: The Colour of FeelingWith Juliet Heslewood, Art Historian A history of Van Gogh in three parts.

Fri 3 Nov, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatrePart 1: Flanders. As he struggled to enter the church as a profession, Van Gogh drew scenes from his native Holland. Drawn to the plight of the poor, he produced dark images that bear a surprising comparison to his later work.

Fri 10 Nov, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatrePart 2: Paris and the Impressionists. Van Gogh joined his supportive brother in Paris where his exposure to the work of the Impressionists lightened his palette forever. Responding to contemporary ideas there, he began to form his distinctive style.

10 TALKS Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

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did Jews find ways to forge a cohesive religious and social identity whilst living as minority groups in non-Jewish countries?

Picasso: A Lifetime LegendWith Juliet Heslewood, Art HistorianSat 27 Jan, 11am–12pm, Lecture TheatreA name synonymous with that of ‘the artist’, Picasso was able to dominate 20th-century art with astonishing changes in style which reveal his engaging originality.

The Invention of FaithWith Prof Teresa Morgan, Oxford UniversitySat 27 Jan, 2–3pm, Lecture TheatreOur use of ‘faith’ to mean a religion or set of religious beliefs derives from the central place of faith in Christianity. But what did the first Christians mean by ‘faith’, and why was it so important to them?

Faith and Co-operation along the Silk RoadsWith Dr Peter Frankopan, Oxford UniversitySat 3 Feb, 11am–12pm, Lecture TheatreThe author of the best-selling The Silk Roads: A New History of the World takes us from the Mediterranean deep into central Asia, looking at the role of faith and religion in this connected part of the ancient world.

STUDY ROOM TALKSTICKETS: £5/£4 concessions, booking essential.

The Copy during the RenaissanceWith Chiara Betti, Digital Collections AssistantTue 24 Oct, 3.45‒4.45pm, meet in Gallery 21Before modern copyright was invented, artists’ copies allowed the most famous compositions of artists including Dürer, Titian and Michelangelo to spread throughout Europe during the 16th century.

Faith to Faith: images of the DivineWith Dr Caroline Palmer, Print Room SupervisorThu 14 Dec, 3.45‒4.45pm, meet in Gallery 21 See how the Divine has been portrayed in the Western art tradition and explore how European artists have responded to their encounters with other world faiths.

WEEKEND TALKSTICKETS: £6/£5 concessions, booking essential.

Smashing Images in Tudor England: A Very Reformation ProblemWith Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch, Oxford UniversitySat 4 Nov, 11am–12pm, Lecture TheatreExplore how the hatred of images became fundamental to the Reformation, and trace the gradual decline of this impulse in England during the 17th century.

Matisse: Mad about ColourWith Juliet Heslewood, Art HistorianSat 20 Jan, 11am‒12pm, Lecture TheatreMatisse and his friends were dubbed ‘wild beasts’ due to their dynamic use of colour, but Matisse also found personal means of expression in his drawing style.

One God, One People? Jews and Judaism in the DiasporaWith Rebecca Abrams, author of The Jewish JourneySun 21 Jan, 2‒3pm, Lecture TheatreWith images of the divine prohibited in Judaism, how

Cornelis Cort (1533–1578) after Federico Barocci (c. 1535–1612), The rest on the return from Egypt, 1571

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COMING SOON

BECOME A MEMBER TODAY

America’s Cool ModernismO’Keeffe to Hopper22 March–22 July 2018

Members enjoy FREE entry to all ticketed exhibitions, with no need to book in advance.

T 01865 278016E membership@ashmus.ox.ac.ukwww.ashmolean.org/support

MEMBERSGET 10%

OFFROOFTOP RESTAURANT Tue–Sun 10am–4.30pm Thu, Fri & Sat 10am–10pm Find us on Level 4 www.ashmoleanrooftop.com

CAFÉTue–Sun, 10am–4.30pm Find us on Level -1T 01865 553823

EATING AND DRINKING

Until St George swept him aside, Edmund of Saint Edmundsbury was widely regarded as England’s patron Saint. Hear about the virtues which endeared him to our medieval ancestors.

The Art of Partying: A Feast for the Eyes!With Alice Foster, Art HistorianWed 13 Dec, 2‒4pm, Lecture TheatreFrom Greek mosaics and Biblical weddings to Renaissance allegories and the celebratory styles of the twentieth-century painters. Examine the popular depiction of parties in the history of Western Art.

Women of the Middle Ages: Life, Love and Learning in Medieval English ArtWith Tim Porter, HistorianWed 24 Jan, 2‒4pm, Lecture TheatreThe ‘kings and battles’ version of history has tended to deny medieval women their rightful place. Explore a feast of artworks which set the record straight and reveal women at home, at work and in power.

AFTERNOON TEA TALKSTICKETS: £10/£9 concessions, inc. afternoon tea, booking essential.

Luther 1517, Lenin 1917:The Music of Two RevolutionsWith Tim Porter, HistorianFri 20 Oct, 2‒4pm, Lecture TheatreThis autumn we commemorate two of the greatest upheavals in history. Music’s response to these periods of change is vivid and thought-provoking.

Gardens within the Roman EmpireWith Linda Farrar, Archaeologist and LecturerWed 1 Nov, 2‒4pm, Lecture TheatreRoman gardens were created within palaces, country villas and town houses in the city of Rome and in the provinces, and were a welcome oasis for their owners.

St Edmund, Patron of EnglandWith Tim Porter, HistorianFri 1 Dec, 2‒4pm, Lecture Theatre

12 COURSES & WORKSHOPS Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

floral and traditional motifs. £65/£60 concessions

The Rise and Fall of the British Neo-RomanticsWith Dr Jan Cox, Art HistorianSat 11,18 & 25 Nov, 2–4pm, Lecture TheatreCelebrating the 2017 centenary of painter, illustrator and designer John Minton, this course looks at the artists who benefitted from the European Modernism brought to war-torn Britain. £30/£25 concessions

Celtic Revival Embroidery WorkshopWith Lynn Hulse and Nicola Jarvis, Ornamental EmbroideryFri 17 & Sat 18 Nov, 10.30am‒4pm, Education CentreInspired by 19th-century British and Irish Celtic art and crafts. Embroider clothing or accessories with Celtic designs using a variety of threads and stitches.£170/£165 concessions

West Gallery Carols WorkshopWith Dave Townsend, MusicianSun 3 Dec, 1‒4.30pm, Lecture TheatreSing songs from the rural parish churches of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. No experience required. Melody or bass instruments welcome. Ends with a 4pm performance in the Atrium.£10/£9 concessions

The Tree Tops and Skies of TurnerWith Kieran Stiles, artistThu 25 & Fri 26 Jan, 10.30am‒4pm, Education CentreExamine Turner’s works in the collection and watch a demonstration in front of one of the paintings. Learn drawing techniques for clouds and rooftops, and produce a completed work over two days.£135/£130 concessions

Linear rhythm, the route of Chinese painting and CalligraphyWith Qu Leilei, ArtistSat 27 Jan, 10.30am‒4.30pm, Education CentreChinese painting and calligraphy share the same languages, compositions and mark making systems. Explore this time-honoured relationship. £75/£70 concessions

For the most up-to-date list of our courses visit www.ashmolean.org/courses

Royal Drawing School at the AshmoleanEvery Sun, 1 Oct‒10 Dec (except 5 Nov), 2‒4pm, GalleriesA course from The Royal Drawing School for young artists aged 15–18. Expand your fine art practice or add to your portfolio by drawing from observation in the museum, from life models and the local area.£150. Booking: royaldrawingschool.orgT: 020 7613 8568

Pissarro and Modern Painting TechniquesWith Kieran Stiles, ArtistWed 25 Oct, 10.30am‒4pm, Education CentreAn oil painting workshop focusing on the landscape paintings of Pissarro and the French Pointillist artists. Learn to paint with brushes, sponges, rags and knives.£65/£60 concessions

iPad for ArtistsWith Martin Beeke, ArtistFri 3 Nov, 10.30am‒4pm, Education CentreLearn how to use the Zen Brush app to draw with colour and layers and find out how to upload, print, and present digital art. £65/£60 concessions

Arethé Festival: Japanese Ceramics and the Way of TeaWith Onimaru Hekizan II, Mika Obata, Robin WilsonSun 5 Nov, 10.30am–7pm, Lecture Theatre, Gallery 36, Wytham Woods and Oxford Ceramic GalleryA day celebrating the contemporary arts of Japanese tea. Talks, demonstrations and a trip to Wytham for the unloading of the anagama kiln and raku firing, followed by a visit to Oxford Ceramics Gallery. See page 7 for information on a linked free display.£35/£30 concessions

A practical introduction to Arabesque design With The Prince’s School of Traditional ArtsThu 9 Nov, 10.30am‒4pm, Education CentreAn introduction to the principles of Arabesque design. Develop line technique and paint designs based on

Find your creative muse with a short course or workshop.

COURSES & WORKSHOPS

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GALLERY ACTIVITIES 13Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

COFFEE & CAKERelax and recharge with coffee, cake and sandwiches in the Ashmolean Café, or enjoy the pre-theatre menu in our Rooftop Restaurant. www.ashmolean.org/eating

MEMBERSGET 10%

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Japanese Tea CeremonyThu 7 Dec, 1–2pm & 3–4pm, Gallery 36Learn about the art of tea in Japan, enjoy a bowl of green tea and watch a demonstration in theAshmolean’s authentic Japanese tea house. Organised in conjunction with the Arethé Festival, celebrating the arts of Japanese tea. See page 12.£5/£4, booking essential.

Poetry in the GalleriesSat 25 Nov & Sat 27 Jan, 2–3pm, Meet in Gallery 21Oxfordshire poets share new work written in response to the Ashmolean’s collections. Free, no booking required.

Sketching in the Cast GalleryWed 4 Oct, 1 Nov & 6 Dec 2017, 3 Jan 2018, 2–4.30pm, Gallery 14During these afternoon sessions, the Cast Gallery’s lower-ground floor study collection is open for you to do independent sketching. Please bring your own materials. Free, no booking required, limited to 10 people. Access: regrettably, due to the layout of the historic building, the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery is only accessible by stairs.

Hands-On CoinsEvery Saturday, 11.30am–3.30pm, Gallery 7Handle historical coins from different times and places, with the help of our volunteer team. Everyone welcome, but more suitable for ages 5+.Free, no booking required.

Archaeological Object and Coin Identification ServiceWed 4 Oct, 1 Nov & 6 Dec12–3pm, Gallery 1A monthly identification service for archaeological objects and coins, run jointly with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Bring along your finds.Free, no booking required.

Add another dimension to your visit with one of our regular activities.GALLERY ACTIVITIES

14 MUSIC Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

EVENING CONCERTSORCHESTRA OF ST JOHN'S PROMS£20 chair, £10 bench, booking essential.Tickets: www.osj.org.uk/ 07775 904 626Doors open at 6.30pm.

J.S. Bach for Violin and HarpsichordTue 3 Oct, 7.30–8.30pm, Randolph Sculpture GalleryWith Jan Schmolck, violin, and Howard Moody, harpsichordSonatas in A major and E major for violin and harpsichord, with harpsichord improvisations alongside the Chaconne from Partita 2 in D minor for solo violin, and Praeludio, Loure and Gigue from Partita 3 in E major for solo violin.

Mozart, Brahms and SchubertTue 14 Nov, 7.30–9.30pm, Randolph Sculpture GalleryWith the Behn Quartet, Dominika Rembowska, Annabelle Oomens, and the Kirkman QuartetChamber music masterpieces with prize-winning Royal Academy of Music students. Brahms sextet in B flat, Mozart viola quintet in G minor and Schubert Quartettsatz.

Christmas CarolsTue 12 Dec, 7.30–9.30pm, Randolph Sculpture GalleryWith the Ashmolean VoicesPopular Christmas concert, including favourite carols.

DAYTIME CONCERTSMusic for Autism – Relaxed ConcertTue 14 Nov, 12–1pm, Lecture TheatreJoin a relaxed and informal concert with the Orchestra of St John’s. Perfect for those on the autism spectrum or who have additional needs or learning disabilities.Free, booking required.01865 278015 / education.service@ashmus.ox.ac.ukSupported by Music for Autism.

Harpsichord RecitalThu 19 Oct, 30 Nov & 25 Jan, 2–3.30pm, Gallery 44Hear a selection of music played on the Kirkman Harpsichord.Free, no booking required.Supported by the Charlotte Bonham-Carter Charitable Trust.

OXFORD LIEDER FESTIVALFri 13 Oct, 12:30–3:30, Lecture Theatre and AtriumThe Ashmolean hosts two events as part of this city-wide festival, celebrating the unique art form of song.

12.30–1pm A performance by local schoolchildren who have taken part in Ashmolean-inspired workshops over the previous weeks to compose their very own song cycle. 2–3.30pm An illustrated lecture with Matthew Winterbottom, Curator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts, on the Pre-Raphaelites and the Arts and Crafts pioneers, followed by a gallery tour.Free, book lecture via oxfordlieder.co.uk

Catch a casual daytime performance or experience an evening concert in the galleries.MUSIC

MUSIC 15Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

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Fri 27–Sun 29 OctFree, booking required for some events

Join our weekend festival celebrating the Ashmolean’s founding collections and our founder Elias Ashmole, who opened the museum in 1683. We are celebrating Elias Ashmole’s 400th birthday this year with this special weekend of activities. Find out more about the fascinating history of the Ashmolean, and about the tradition of collecting objects. Be transported back to the 1600s with period theatre, talks, quizzes and music. This festival kicks off with a LiveFriday! See page 16.

A weekend of celebrations focused around our founding collections.FOUNDER’S FESTIVAL

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Sat 18–Sun 19 Nov, 11am–4pmFree, booking required for some events

A big weekend exploring how light, music and food connects communities and faiths. Come and join us for a dazzling weekend of activities, talks and craft for all ages. Find out more about how Oxford’s religious communities celebrate the festival of light. Listen to local choirs and live music, make a lantern, join a tour, have a go at chanting or meditation, or sample some delicious food from Oxford’s community stalls. With thanks to the Oxford Council of Faiths, the Oxford Civic Society and our other supporters.

Celebrating Oxford’s DiversityONE WORLD FESTIVAL

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Fri 27 Oct, 7–10.30pmIt’s our founder Elias Ashmole’s 400th birthday year and we’re celebrating in 17th-century style! Tour our brand new founding collection gallery and have a go at curating your own. Meet a host of characters and be transported back to the 1600s with theatre, talks, music and more.Free, booking essential.

F E S T I V A L

F O U N D E R ’ S

Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

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Stay after hours in one of Oxford’s iconic locations.LATES

Iconography in the Islamic WorldWith Oliver Watson, Emeritus Professor of Islamic Art and Architecture, University of Oxford.Fri 26 Jan, 6pm, Lecture TheatreIn the West, many believe that figures are forbidden in the Islamic world and that significant meaning is instead conveyed in the abstract patterns that abound in Islamic art. The true story is more interesting, and shows a distinctive and innovative approach to iconography and meaning in both religious and secular contexts in the Islamic world.

ASHMOLEAN AFTER HOURSFri 26 Jan, 5–8pmWe will be keeping our doors open late so you can enjoy an evening viewing of Imagining the Divine, attend a talk, or relax after work with friends, all after our normal closing time.There will be music and bars serving food and drink. Why not book a table for dinner at our Rooftop Restaurant?General entry free, tickets needed for exhibition or talks. Please note that not all galleries will be open. Visit www.ashmolean.org for more info.

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CHRISTMAS LIGHT FESTIVAL Fri 17 Nov, 5–8pmTake part in festive family activities, enjoy live music sung by local choirs, indulge in warming treats from the café, or start your Christmas shopping in the Ashmolean shop.Free, no booking required.

F O U N D E R ’ S

18 TOURS

Interpreted Tour: Hands-on Thu 19 Oct, 10.30am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21A hands-on session for visually impaired people.Free, no booking required.

A Poetry Tour in a BookSat 21 Oct, 3–4pm, meet in Gallery 21With Diana Moore, AuthorA journey from East to West using poetry and song to tell fascinating Ashmolean-inspired stories.Free, no booking required.

Jewish Treasures of the AshmoleanThu 9 Nov, 2.30–3.30pm, meet in Gallery 21With Rebecca Abrams, author of The Jewish JourneyTake a 4000-year journey through the galleries of the Ashmolean to find out how Jewish life evolved from pre-Biblical times up to the present day.Free, no booking required.

Lost Languages on Found ObjectsFri 17 & Tue 21 Nov, 2–3pm, meet in Gallery 21With Prof John Coleman, Department of Linguistics, Philology and Phonetics, Oxford UniversityBring lost languages back to life on a tour of objects decorated with different scripts and writing. Part of Oxford University’s Being Human Festival 2017.Free, booking recommended.

Find out more by visiting the Information Desk or go to ashmolean.org/tours

Highlights Tours Tue, Wed & Sat, 11am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21Discover the treasures of the Ashmolean with this great introduction to the museum.

Lunchtime ToursTue–Sat, 1.15–2pm, meet in Gallery 21A different themed tour each lunchtime.

Afternoon Tours Wed & Thu, 3–3.45pm, meet in Gallery 21A different themed tour each afternoon.All of the above are free, max. 15 places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Downstairs in the Cast Gallery Tours Thu & Sat, 2‒2.45pm, meet in Gallery 21Learn about the great statues and friezes of ancient Greece and Rome through the collection of plaster casts.Free, max. 12 places. Access: regrettably, due to the layout of the historic building, the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery is only accessible by stairs.

Interpreted Tour: BSL Mon 16 Oct, 10.30am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21A themed tour with a BSL Interpreter. Free, no booking required.

© Ian W

allman

© Ian W

allman

Discover more about the treasures of the Ashmolean with one of our free tours.

TOURS

EXHIBITION EVENT

FAMILY FUN 19

Drop in All family events are free, with a suggested donation of £1 per child.Reminder Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pre-RaphaelitesFri 20 Oct, Gallery 66Islamic Middle EastFri 27 Oct, Gallery 31

PICK UP FUNBegin your museum adventure at the Information Desk.Every day: family trails and sketching materials. Sat & Sun, 2–4pm: Fun ‘make and takes’, magnifiers and torches (subject to availability).

Check out p.15 for family-friendly Big Weekend events!

HOLIDAY ADVENTURES:HALF TERM Royalists and RoundheadsWed 25 & Thu 26 Oct, 1‒4pm, AtriumCreate your own 17th-century accessories, and find out about exciting Civil War objects.

NEW BABY ASHMOLESFor parents and carers with babies under 1 (not walking). Join us for singing and sensory play with your little ones, and fascinating object stories for adults.10.30‒11.15am

Dutch Still LifeFri 6 Oct, Gallery 45 Mughal IndiaFri 13 Oct, Gallery 33

ASHVENTURESAll ages welcome, particularly suitable for ages 4+. Join our regular Ashventures: stories, gallery hunts, games and crafts.2‒2.45pm, repeated at 3.15‒4pm,meet in Gallery 21

Portrait DetectivesSat 7 OctAncient Greece: Mythical MonstersSat 14 OctStill Life Painting: Flowers, Bugs and Skulls Sat 11 NovNativity: Christmas Story PaintingsSat 9 & 16 DecIndia: Lord of the DanceSat 13 JanAncient Rome: Emperors & EmpiresSat 27 Jan

LITTLE ASHMOLES FUNExplore, play and learn together with a different theme each month. All welcome but particularly suitable for 3–5 year olds.Every Thursday in term-time10.30‒11.15am

DiwaliThu 5, 12 & 19 Oct, Gallery 32Mini Beast FeastThu 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Nov, Gallery 48Little AngelsThu 7 & 14 Dec, Gallery 43Money, Money, MoneyThu 4, 11, 18 & 25 Jan, Gallery 7

© Ian W

allman

Fun, friendly and free, this is our vibrant and creative programme of family activities.

FAMILY FUN

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SHOP & CAFEOpen Tue–Sun 10am–5pmHoliday Openings: Bank Holiday Mondays and every Monday from 30th Oct–18 Dec.

Find us on Level -1 shop.ashmolean.org

CHRISTMAS AT THE ASHMOLEAN

events@ashmolean.org 01865 610406www.ashmolean.org/Christmas

Surprise and delight your guests by hosting your Christmas party in the elegant surroundings of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford.

Wine and dine in the stunning galleries and then party the night away in our vaulted café – make it a truly memorable occasion this year.

‘We had a wonderful party and your service was excellent so thank you very much. Happy holidays!’

ASHMOLEAN CHRISTMASPARTIES

MEMBERSGET 10%

OFF