Rare artefacts on display at the Government Museum

The Government Museum on Kasturba Road has put on display rare artefacts to mark its 150th anniversary.

This unique exhibition is on till September 30 at the museum tucked between the Visvesvaraya Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. Minister for Kannada and Culture Umashree on Wednesday, inaugurated the anniversary celebrations.

Speaking to Deccan Herald on the occasion, Curator of the museum Manjula said all the rare collections in storage have been brought out and put on display.

The collection comprises rare bronze, sandalwood and ivory sculptures and idols, traditional paintings, archaeological specimens, weapons of kings and from the British era, and inscriptions. Literature on the history of the museum and Venkatappa Art Gallery since 1950 is also on display.

“We have also put 55 items on display at the newly established open-air gallery which will be made permanent,” she added. The Department of Archaeology and Museums organised a seminar that focused on 10 facets of the museum such as its architecture, antiquities, paintings, arms, sculptures, edifices and more.

The Government Museum is said to be the second oldest museum in South India. It was established in 1865 in the then Mysore State under the guidance of Surgeon Edward Balfour, who founded a museum in Madras. His efforts were supported by the L B Bowring, who was the then Chief Commissioner of Mysore.

The Department of Archaeology and Museums has spent around Rs 90 lakh to renovate the 137-year-old building. A huge arch, similar to the one at the entrance of the High Court of Karnataka has been constructed. A grass lawn adds to the ambience, an official said.