Dame Jessica Rawson, DBE, FBA

Dame Jessica Rawson, DBE, FBA, is an art historian, curator, sinologist and academic administrator renowned for her expertise in Chinese art and archaeology. Over a distinguished career spanning more than five decades, she has shaped global understanding of Chinese material culture through her curatorial work, scholarship and leadership roles in higher education.  

Jessica began her career at the British Museum in 1967, serving as Curator and later Deputy Keeper (1976–1987) in the Department of Oriental Antiquities, before becoming Keeper (1987–1994). She curated landmark exhibitions and produced influential publications on Chinese bronzes, jades, ceramics and decorative arts, including The British Museum Book of Chinese Art and China: The Three Emperors 1662–1795.  

From 1994 to 2010, she served as Warden of Merton College, Oxford, one of the University of Oxford’s oldest colleges, and as Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University (2006–2011). She has lectured widely, held visiting professorships and served as President of the Oriental Ceramic Society (1993–1997). Her scholarship combines rigorous archaeological research with an accessible approach, making Chinese art history engaging to both academic and general audiences.