Sitting at the intersection of the Egyptian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean galleries, this new display tells the story of four characters who migrated between the three regions – a temporary showcase in place of the Rosetta Stone while on loan.

Studio Eger collaborated with interdisciplinary studio The design kollectiv to create a display which evokes a sense of the Mediterranean landscape, drawing upon abstracted textures and vivid colours taken from the environment. A mirrored cladding was used to place the viewer inside the landscape, whilst also setting the display apart from the permanent collection. This cladding was meticulously tested to ensure the text and image was legible, and the ancient objects were presented at their best.

The graphic scheme also features maps which borrowed from the dot-matrix finish of the outer case, to create a feeling of movement between the countries. A bold blue background was used throughout the graphic labelling to match seamlessly with the setworks of the entire inner case.

Latterly, we were invited to create a label which introduced ‘Eternal Telephone’: an audio installation vocalising the four stories. This was in collaboration with Applied Stories, who wanted a playful call-to-action for the audio piece. We created a label with a talking vintage telephone, creating a sense of travelling across time and place.

3D Design: The design kollectiv
Audio Design: Applied Stories
Photography ©The Trustees of the British Museum