Opium: Seduction, Greed, Art

Derived from the fragile yet potent poppy, opium has long occupied a complex place in human history — revered as a source of relief and inspiration, and feared for its addictive power. Its intoxicating allure shaped global trade, driven by greed and desire, first transforming China and later Europe, with profound social and cultural consequences.

This illustrated presentation traces opium’s dual role as both sedative and seduction, examining its influence on medicine, society and the arts. From calming troubled minds to inspiring enduring works of music, literature and visual art, the talk reveals how this beguiling substance left an indelible mark on global culture.

Amanda Herries studied Archaeology and Anthropology at Cambridge University before working as a Curator at the Museum of London from 1978 to 1988, specialising in decorative arts since 1714. She later lived in Japan, where she lectured and wrote on cross-cultural artistic exchange between East and West. Returning to the United Kingdom, Amanda has curated exhibitions, led specialist tours to Japan, fundraised for arts organisations, and published extensively, with recent work focusing on Japanese plant and garden influences in Western art and design.