People of the World

Treasures from around the globe

About

What we collect says a lot about us. What do we value now, and what did we value 100 years ago? 400 years ago? 2000? Both treasures and everyday objects have important tales to tell about ourselves, past and present, and the evolution of our societies.

The People of the World Gallery houses an eclectic collection that ranges from Ancient Egypt to the golden age of Greek philosophy to the modern day. It illuminates the past as we look towards the future.

Many people from Otago and beyond have shared their stories by gifting objects to the Museum’s collection. This gallery reflects that generosity and embodies the passion and curiosity of collectors throughout the ages.

Don’t Miss

• A ceramic panel showing the Madonna and Child, attributed to Florentine sculptor Giovanni della Robbia (1469–1529)

• A marble statue of Alexander the Great’s head from the Persian part of his empire, dated to around 200BC

• A Japanese wedding kimono, gifted to Tūhura Otago Museum and the people of Dunedin by the people of our sister city Otaru, Japan

• A bronze Corinthian helmet dating from the early 6th century BC

• One of the oldest items in the gallery: a two-handled Etruscan jar from the 5th century BC