Faculty of Asian And Middle Eastern Studies: A Legacy of Scholarship and Artistic Inspiration

Nestled within the historic campus of Cambridge University, the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies stands as a beacon of intellectual curiosity and artistic exploration. Founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies, it has undergone a remarkable transformation into a globally recognized center for understanding the complexities of Asia, the Middle East, and Africa—a place where history intertwines with art, shaping perspectives on cultures across millennia.

• A Foundation Built Upon Imperial Ambitions: The School’s origins lie in responding to the burgeoning need for expertise during Britain's imperial era. Initially focused on training colonial administrators, its mission swiftly expanded beyond practical governance to encompass a rigorous academic pursuit—a commitment to critically analyzing cultural traditions and historical narratives.
• Celebrating Pioneering Scholars & Artistic Portraits: The Faculty’s collection boasts an impressive array of portraits depicting influential figures who have shaped the field. Among them stands T.E. Lawrence, whose image embodies the spirit of adventure and intellectual rigor—a testament to Cambridge's dedication to fostering exceptional minds.

What distinguishes AMES is its unparalleled depth of expertise. Here reside world-leading scholars specializing in diverse areas – from ancient Egyptian art and Islamic calligraphy to Japanese aesthetics and Middle Eastern geopolitics. This concentration of talent fuels groundbreaking research that contributes significantly to our collective understanding of these regions, pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

• A Vast Library Resource: Students and researchers alike benefit from access to Cambridge’s expansive library system—a treasure trove of resources dedicated to Asian and Middle Eastern studies. Specialized collections delve into manuscripts, maps, and archaeological artifacts, providing invaluable tools for scholarly inquiry.
• Cutting-Edge Research & Exhibitions: AMES actively engages with the wider artistic community through exhibitions showcasing contemporary interpretations of Asian and Middle Eastern themes. Recent initiatives have explored intersections between art and politics, fostering dialogue about cultural heritage and its role in shaping global narratives.

Furthermore, consider Arpag Mekhitarian (1911-2004), a celebrated Egyptian-Belgian Egyptologist & art historian whose legacy continues to inspire. His meticulous research into ancient Egyptian iconography illuminated the artistic traditions of antiquity and contributed immensely to our understanding of its cultural significance. Similarly, Major James Rennell (1742-1830)—the ‘father of oceanography’—whose accurate maps of India revolutionized cartographic science and profoundly influenced artistic representations of landscapes.

Don't forget Chiu Ka Wing (Karl Chiu), Hong Kong-born artist known for his impactful work “Tiananmen 2009”. His style reflects the cultural heritage of Asia, highlighting the importance of artistic expression in conveying social commentary.

Finally, explore the Faculty’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration—bringing together historians, linguists, anthropologists, economists, and political scientists—to generate holistic insights into these multifaceted regions.