In 2003, the landmark institution, The British Museum celebrates its 250-year anniversary. When the museum opened in 1753 it was a Chelsea doctor's rich store of curiosities, packed into a rundown London mansion. Upon Dr. Sloane's original request, a steady acquisition of objects began - donations came in from missionaries, soldiers, bureaucrats and scientists from all corners of the world.

Today, trustees, appointed by the government and the Queen, meet to discuss new acquisitions. Uniformed warders pace the floors, keeping a watchful eye over gold from Africa and statues from Greece; they...