Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures - extended to 18 January 2015Katherine Veness's blog | Created 9 years agoThe Western Australian Museum is excited to announce that Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures has been extended until the 18 January 2015. Image of Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures signage Image copyright WA Museum This fascinating exhibition has impressed crowds throughout its Australian tour. Ancient treasures of gold, ivory, glass, stone and bronze weave a story of rich cultural diversity in one of the modern world’s most misunderstood countries. Engraved Disc, before 145 B.C., National Museum of Afghanistan Image copyright WA Museum Learn about facets of Afghanistan’s history, from the nomadic lifestyle of the northern grasslands and ancient burials with gold-adorned coffins, to everyday home-life happenings told through the presence of objects such as cups and bowls. Blue vase with openwork trailing (left) and cup with a handle (right), 1st century A.D., National Museum of Afghanistan Image copyright WA Museum Afghanistan lies at the heart of what was once the legendary Silk Road, and as such was linked to countries as far afield as Greece and Rome, which particularly influenced Afghani regions such as Hellenistic Aï Khanum. Wall image with a corinthian capital in the background, National Museum of Afghanistan. Image copyright WA Museum Walking through the exhibition, it becomes obvious that Afghanistan is much more than what we see portrayed in the media today. This exhibition not only reflects Afghanistan as a country, but also teaches us that culture never stands still; it is always changing, due to a wide range of internal and external influences. Plaque with a figure and makaras, 1st Century A.D., National Museum of Afghanistan Image copyright WA Museum Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures allows you to discover how this beautiful country became a melting pot of cultures, and how these priceless objects were almost lost in a country ravaged by war. Come and untangle the mysteries of Afghanistan, before time runs out! Standing ram (left) and headdress shaped like a tree, second quarter of the 1st century A.D., National Museum of Afghanistan Image copyright WA Museum Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul is on show at the Western Australian Museum - Perth until 18 January 2015. Find out more and buy tickets.