A summer museum exhibition curated by the esteemed Royal Philatelic Society London is captivating visitors with an extraordinary collection of over 550 historical artefacts associated with the renowned Anglo-Zulu War.
This exceptional showcase boasts an array of remarkable items, including authentic autographs from Zulu King Cetshwayo, an unparalleled assemblage of contemporary Zulu war shields, period red coats and helmets, and relics from the iconic Battles of iSandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, which have been immortalized in the classic films Zulu and Zulu Dawn.
Situated at 15 Abchurch Lane, London, EC4N 7BW, the Royal Philatelic Society London—a registered charity and an accredited museum by Arts Council England (ACE)—is hosting this month-long event from 1st to 31st July 2023. The exhibition welcomes visitors from Monday to Saturday, between 9.30am and 4.30pm.
Admission to this captivating exhibition is free; however, prospective attendees are encouraged to reserve their spots at clashofempires.org.
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, remarked, “One hundred and forty-four years ago, on the fertile soil of the Zulu Kingdom, the valiant soldiers of Her Britannic Majesty Queen Victoria found themselves locked in battle with the warriors of King Cetshwayo kaMpande. It was truly a momentous clash of empires, as the formidable nation shaped by King Shaka kaSenzangakhona proved to be far more formidable than anyone in British society or the military had ever anticipated.”
The invasion of the Zulu Kingdom by British and Colonial forces on 11th January 1879 sparked one of the most legendary conflicts of the Victorian era. Notably, the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, famously portrayed in the 1964 film Zulu starring Sir Michael Caine, witnessed the awarding of eleven Victoria Crosses to the defenders of a border mission post who valiantly resisted an overwhelming Zulu assault.
This month, the Royal Philatelic Society London invites the public to explore an exhibition that showcases postal, historical, and cultural objects, providing insight into the context, history, and lasting legacy of the Clash of Empires.
The exhibition’s narrative unfolds in the early 19th century, chronicling the rise of King Shaka kaSenzangakhona and the emergence of the formidable Zulu Kingdom. It then delves into the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War, ultimately extending its exploration to the present day, examining the war’s enduring repercussions 140 years after its commencement. Noteworthy highlights within the collection include a poignant keepsake sent home to the family of a fallen soldier from the Battle of Rorke’s Drift and letters penned by Lieutenants Chard and Bromhead, the two senior British officers who led the defense during the battle. Additionally, the exhibition showcases a breathtaking array of Zulu shields, carried into battle by warriors fiercely protecting their homeland against British invasion in 1879.
The exhibition’s comprehensive and expansive nature provides a unique opportunity to witness the intertwined narratives of this “captivating episode of history,” as described by Ian Knight, an acclaimed historian. It illuminates the significant historical event from both British and Zulu perspectives, artfully depicted through hundreds of extraordinary artefacts.
Prince Buthelezi acknowledges the relevance of the Anglo-Zulu War and its profound impact on subsequent generations. He stated, “As you contemplate the artefacts and original letters within this collection, I hope you will experience the drama and tragedy, as well as the courage and dignity, of this shared history.”
This remarkable exhibition, as emphasized by Prince Buthelezi, serves as a “portal to the past,” offering visitors an immersive experience where they can delve into the intricacies of the Anglo-Zulu War. Through the extensive display of over 550 historical artefacts, visitors are invited to explore the shared history of these two nations, with a particular focus on the Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift—immortalized in the acclaimed films Zulu (1964), starring Michael Caine, and Zulu Dawn (1979), starring Peter O’Toole.
At the heart of the exhibition, visitors are treated to extraordinary dioramas that meticulously recreate the battles of the Anglo-Zulu War, providing a captivating 360-degree perspective of these historic conflicts.
Ian Knight, the celebrated author and historian, describes this exhibition as the most significant and comprehensive exploration of a single conflict to date. It offers an unparalleled collection of physical artefacts connected to the Anglo-Zulu War, presenting a profound engagement with both the British and Zulu viewpoints.
