The V&A: empire to multiculturalism?

Abstract

The paper considers the influence of Empire at the Victoria and Albert Museum, with particular reference to the display of collections from the Indian Sub-Continent in the late 20th century. It offers an analysis of the discursive practices of the Museum drawing on postcolonial theoretical positions, in particular Said’s concept of ‘Orientalism’. Questions are posed regarding the extent to which the Museum has adequately addressed and reflected Britain’s transformation from an imperial power to a post-colonial, multicultural society, and the need to articulate shared histories and strategies of inclusion.