1 BABYLON: MYTH AND REALITY

A collection of major archaeological finds, featuring vivid reliefs and examples of architecture, alongside a look at the myths and traditions of the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II.
British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1 (www.britishmuseum.org 020-7323 8181), until Mar 15, adm charge tbc

2 BYZANTIUM 330-1453

A chronological look at artistic development in the Byzantine Empire, featuring a wide range of icons, paintings, mosaics, enamels and metalwork.
Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, W1 (www.royalacademy.org.uk 0870 8488484), until Mar 22, £12, concs available

3 DARWIN

Family photographs, letters and other personal effects, tracing the life of the naturalist and scientist, as well as exploring the ideas behind contemporary evolutionary biology.
Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 (www.nhm.ac.uk 020-7942 5000), until Apr 19, £9, concs available

4 COLD WAR MODERN

A look at design on both sides of the Iron Curtain and how it contributed to the Cold War from 1945-70.
Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 (www.vam.ac.uk 020-7942 2211), until Jan 11, £9, concs available

5 PLASTICITY: 100 YEARS OF MAKING PLASTICS

Display charting the development of man-made materials from Bakelite to contemporary plastics.
Science Museum, Exhibition Road, SW7 (www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 0870 8704868), until Jan 1, free

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