The Orientation Gallery for the first floor explores the transmission of ideas, knowledge, culture and religion through the overland Silk Road and sea trade routes between the Mediterranean and Asia in early modern times. Maps provide information about the routes taken by the early traders while an interactive touch screen explores the themes of trade, innovation and ideas, religion and craftsmanship, and design. These themes are reinforced with wall displays around the gallery.
Figure of a camel (detail), China, Tang Dynasty, AD 618-907
