Sharjah Museum's Islamic art masterpieces exhibit opens

Observer

17-03-2025

MUSCAT: The National Museum, in partnership with the Sharjah Museums Authority, launched the 'Masterpieces of Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation' exhibition. Held under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum, and in the presence of Shaikh Sultan bin Ahmed al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore 82 masterpieces of Islamic art, some displayed outside the UAE for the first time.
Among the unique pieces featured are the first Quran printed with lithographic technology and a silver cup bearing the tughra of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, highlighting the lasting influence of Islamic art across the ages.
Jamal bin Hassan al Mousawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum, noted that this exhibition marks an extension of the ongoing cultural collaboration between Oman and the UAE. 'This exhibition represents a new chapter following the success of the 'Omani Civilisation: Origins and Development' exhibition in Sharjah in 2023,' Al Moosawi said. He added, 'It showcases the scientific and artistic achievements of Islamic civilisation, which continues to inspire creativity and innovation today.'
The exhibition is divided into three distinct sections, each offering a deep dive into the arts and innovations that flourished during Islamic civilisation:
Arts of Calligraphy: Featuring rare Islamic manuscripts, Quranic pages and historic items such as curtains from the Prophet's Mosque and Kiswa (Kaaba covering), this section highlights the development of Arabic calligraphy and its role in religious and artistic expression. Additionally, it includes Islamic coins from the Umayyad and Abbasid periods, showcasing the art of calligraphic engraving on currency.
Sharjah Museum's Islamic art masterpieces exhibit opens
Science and Innovation: This section honours the groundbreaking contributions of Muslim scholars in fields such as astronomy, medicine and engineering, displaying artefacts like astrolabes, celestial globes and medical manuscripts. Visitors can also view tools used by Muslim physicians in the Middle Ages, reflecting the contributions of Islamic science to global knowledge.
Harmony and Diversity: Focusing on the aesthetic diversity of Islamic art, this section highlights geometric, floral and pictorial motifs that emerged between the 2nd and 14th centuries AH/28th century AD. These artworks reflect the cultural exchanges and trade influences that shaped Islamic civilisation over centuries.
Aisha Rashid Ali Bin Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, expressed pride in this collaboration, emphasising the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between Oman and the UAE. 'This exhibition is a testament to the shared Islamic heritage that unites our peoples and fosters greater understanding through art,' she said.
The exhibition also offers an interactive experience for visitors, with digital demonstrations and interpretive panels that provide insight into the historical and cultural context of each piece. Additionally, guided programmes and workshops will help visitors engage more deeply with the rich history of Islamic art.
Running until May 3, the 'Masterpieces of Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation' exhibition is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistic and scientific achievements of Islamic civilisation, highlighting the importance of cultural cooperation between museums in preserving this invaluable heritage for future generations.