The star of Bethlehem – A journey through science and art

Project leader: Silke Ackermann

Department: Prehistory and Europe

Project start: ongoing
End date: tbc.

Description:

Many publications have looked at the phenomena that might possibly be identified as the Star of Bethlehem. However, so far nobody has looked at the objects that depict the Star in one form or another or at their cultural context.  This study puts the objects in the context of the possible astronomical and astrological explanations for the Star’s appearance.

Objectives:

 To take a new look at the Star of Bethlehem from a different angle;

 To explain the appearance of the Star on objects from all areas of the British Museum;

 To encourage visitors to look at the objects from a different perspective.