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Gulf Today
18-03-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Sultan Bin Ahmed attends opening of Oman exhibition
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of the emirate of Sharjah, attended the inauguration of the 'Masterpieces from the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation' exhibition at the National Museum of Oman on Monday. The exhibition, which will run until May this year, serves as a cultural platform highlighting the deep historical ties and close collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman in preserving heritage and promoting Islamic culture. The inauguration began with a speech by Jamal Al Mousawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman, in which he welcomed Sheikh Sultan and the attendees to the opening of the exhibition which aims to showcase the beauty and evolution of Islamic art and is the result of collaboration between the National Museum of Oman and the Sharjah Museums Authority. In his speech Al Mousawi explained the exhibition is divided into three sections: Calligraphic Arts, Science and Innovations, and Harmony and Diversity. These sections showcase a selection of artifacts that highlight the richness, diversity, and deep cultural heritage of Islamic art throughout history. He noted that the National Museum of Oman is committed to showcasing and educating visitors about this artistic legacy. Additionally, he emphasised that the exhibition aligns with the museum's approach to cultural diplomacy, reinforcing its role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation. Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, delivered a speech in which she expressed her delight at the opening of the exhibition in a prestigious cultural institution. She emphasised that this event reflects the strong fraternal ties and deep historical relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman, fostered by the wise leadership of both nations. She highlighted that the visit of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to Oman was a key motivation for organising this exhibition. It aligns with his vision of using culture and the arts as a bridge to strengthen bonds between brothers, reinforcing values of cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries. These ties are deeply rooted in history and extend across various fields, shaping shared cultural, historical, and social connections over the years. 'This exhibition is not merely a platform for displaying a collection of rare Islamic artworks; it is a window through which we can reflect on the rich historical legacy we share. It embodies the exceptional craftsmanship and creativity that have distinguished Islamic civilisation throughout the ages,' she said, adding: 'We are honoured to present a remarkable selection of rare artefacts, being exhibited for the first time outside the United Arab Emirates. These pieces stand as a testament to our shared heritage and the profound historical ties that unite our people.' She extended her gratitude to the team at the National Museum of Oman and all those involved in organising this distinguished cultural event, which provides an opportunity to explore and appreciate the timeless beauty of Islamic civilisation. Following the speeches, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah officially inaugurated the exhibition by cutting the ceremonial ribbon. He then toured the exhibition, receiving a detailed explanation of the artefacts and their historical, cultural, and artistic significance. The exhibition features 82 rare pieces, being displayed for the first time outside the UAE including Islamic manuscripts, metalwork, ceramics, and historical coins that illustrate the evolution and richness of Islamic artistic heritage across successive civilisations. During his tour, he viewed several exceptional artefacts of great historical and cultural value that exemplify the artistic diversity and innovation that characterised Islamic civilisation over the centuries. These included a silver cup bearing the Tughra (imperial signature) of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, a hexagonal dinner chair crafted for Al Nasir Muhammad Ibn Qalawun, the first Islamic dirham minted in Baghdad after the Mongol invasion, an 11th or 12th-century incense burner in the shape of a cat, and a gilded ceramic ewer from the 13th century.
Sharjah 24
17-03-2025
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah's deputy ruler opens Islamic art exhibition in Oman
Cultural diplomacy through Islamic artistic heritage The opening ceremony commenced with a speech by Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman, who welcomed Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi and the attendees. He emphasised that the exhibition highlights the evolution and beauty of Islamic art and results from cooperation between the National Museum and the Sharjah Museums Authority. Al Moosawi explained that the exhibition consists of three sections—Calligraphic Arts, Sciences and Innovations, and Harmony and Diversity—each featuring artefacts that illustrate the artistic richness and depth of Islamic civilisation over the centuries. He stressed that the exhibition aligns with the National Museum's commitment to cultural diplomacy, fostering awareness of Islamic heritage. Strengthening UAE-Oman cultural ties through the arts Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, expressed her delight at hosting the exhibition in one of Oman's leading cultural institutions, highlighting the strong fraternal ties and shared history between the UAE and Oman, strengthened by the leadership of both nations. Deemas noted that the visit of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to Oman was a key inspiration for organising this exhibition. It reflects his vision of using culture and the arts as a bridge to strengthen relationships and promote cultural exchange between the two nations. The exhibition further highlights the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and social connections that have flourished across generations. Rare Islamic treasures displayed for the first time outside the UAE She explained that the exhibition is not just a platform to display rare Islamic artefacts but also an opportunity to reflect on the shared historical legacy of the region. It highlights the exceptional craftsmanship and creativity that defined Islamic civilisation throughout the ages. Among the significant pieces on display for the first time outside the UAE are a silver cup bearing the tughra (imperial signature) of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, a six-sided dining chair crafted for Al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, and the first Islamic dirham minted in Baghdad after the Mongol invasion. Other notable exhibits include an 11th or 12th-century feline-shaped incense burner and a gilded ceramic ewer from the 13th century, exemplifying the artistic diversity of Islamic heritage. An immersive experience of Islamic artistic evolution Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi toured the exhibition, receiving detailed explanations about the 82 rare artefacts on display. These include Islamic manuscripts, metalwork, ceramics, and historical coins, each illustrating the artistic evolution and cultural richness of successive Islamic civilisations. The exhibition celebrates the strong ties between the UAE and Oman and embodies the vision of the Sharjah Ruler to enhance cultural cooperation and use the arts as a medium for dialogue and mutual understanding. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the artistic and aesthetic dimensions of Islamic civilisation through a carefully curated selection of artefacts that narrate centuries of Islamic history. Promoting knowledge exchange and international cultural collaboration The exhibition aims to highlight the artistic achievements of Islamic civilisation, strengthen collaboration with regional and international cultural institutions, and raise awareness of the rich heritage of the Islamic world. By fostering cultural appreciation and knowledge exchange, the event contributes to a deeper understanding of the enduring artistic traditions of the Islamic world. Dignitaries and cultural leaders attend the grand opening The opening ceremony was attended by His Excellency Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum of Oman; His Excellency Mohammed bin Nakhira Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Oman; Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Media Council; Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority; Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman; along with several senior officials and diplomats.
Observer
15-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Trace the evolution of Italian fashion jewellery at this exhibit
Stepping into the captivating world of Italian fashion jewellery at the National Museum of Oman is nothing short of enchanting in 2025. The exhibition, titled 'Diva! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery,' showcases an exquisite array of collections spanning from the 1950s to the present day, each piece a testimony to the artistry and innovation intrinsic to Italian fashion. Amongst the treasures from the 1950s, we are greeted by the dramatic presence of heavier designs, with a particularly intriguing focus on animal-themed collections. As the decades unfolded, jewellery makers began pushing boundaries, experimenting with an eclectic mix of materials beyond traditional gold. Notable examples include the use of ceramic and leather, with some daringly incorporating industrial elements like oil filters in more contemporary works. Highlighting the richness of this era is the striking Butterfly necklace by Ornella Bijoux, crafted from gold-galvanised ceramic and adorned with intricate murrine, glass paste, and crystals, dating back to 1975. A standout from 1925 is the vibrant coral necklace sourced from the Deanna Farneti Cera Archive. Innovative designer Paola Volpi Gioilli surprises us with the Tilted Alga, a remarkable piece created from industrial oil filters interlaced with cultured pearls. More recent creations, such as the kimono collection earrings by Lebole Gioielli, made from silk, wood, gold, and galvanised brass, highlight the evolving trends of 2013. Gucci's necklace, blending brass with glass, and Carmen Scar's Place Vendome Smeraldo, made of linen, oil colours, and resin, further demonstrate the diverse artistry that has emerged in modern times. The exhibition is a narrative of Italy's rich jewellery history, showcasing modern craftsmanship through pieces like the Timone necklace by Grazia & Marcia Vozza from 2018, which harmoniously combines silver, gold, turquoise paste, tiger's eye, and mother of pearl. An elegant eye-catching piece, the Re Ottavio – Princess Grace Necklace, created in 1960, boasts gold-galvanised brass, pearls, and crystals, adding a touch of nostalgia to the collection. Curated by Professor Alba Cappellieri, a distinguished Jewellery Design educator at Politecnico di Milano and Director of the Vicenza Museum of Jewellery, this exhibition is the culmination of two years of meticulous research. Professor Cappellieri shared with the Observer, "The purpose of this collection is to reveal that Italian fashion jewellery transcends mere ornamentation. It embodies creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation." She emphasised the significance of ancient techniques, such as enamel, alongside contemporary materials, echoing the sentiment that beauty stems from both creativity and quality. Supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, this exhibition fosters a cultural dialogue between Italy and the Sultanate of Oman, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and collaboration between both nations. Visitors are invited to explore the artistic evolution of modern Italian jewellery, representing a hallmark of global Italian creativity. The pieces on display also reflect the dynamic social changes throughout the decades. The exhibition invites visitors to consider Italian fashion jewellery not merely as aesthetic embellishments but as cultural artefacts that embody the roots and values of Italian heritage. As Diva! elegantly explores the masterpieces crafted by renowned Italian bijoutiers and independent designers, it highlights the outstanding craftsmanship that epitomises unique Italian creativity on a global stage. This celebration features an array of visionary talents, from established masters to burgeoning designers, each contributing their unique perspectives under the unifying theme of excellence in Italian fashion jewellery.
