SHARJAH, 17th March, 2025 (WAM)-- H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, who serves as the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the "Masterpieces of Islamic Art from the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization" exhibit on Monday at the National Museum of Oman.
Ongoing until May, this exhibition acts as a cultural stage highlighting the profound historical connections and robust cooperation between the UAE and Oman in safeguarding their heritage and advancing Islamic culture.
The inauguration began with a address from Jamal Al Moosawi, the Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman, who greeted Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi and the guests present.
He stressed that the exhibition showcases the progression and elegance of Islamic art, stemming from the collaboration between the National Museum and the Sharjah Museums Authority.
Al Moosawi stated that the exhibit comprises three segments: Calligraphic Arts, Sciences and Innovations, and Harmony and Diversity. Each segment showcases items highlighting the profound artistic legacy of Islamic civilization throughout history. He emphasized that this exhibition supports the National Museum’s dedication to cultural diplomacy and promotes an understanding of Islamic heritage.
Aisha Rashid Deemas, the Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, conveyed her joy over hosting the exhibit at one of Oman’s premier cultural establishments. She emphasized the robust familial bonds and common heritage linking the UAE and Oman, which have been reinforced under the guidance of their respective leaders.
Deemas highlighted that the trip of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and ruler of Sharjah, to Oman served as significant motivation for arranging this exhibition. This initiative embodies his belief in leveraging culture and art as means to fortify ties and encourage mutual understanding between the two countries.
The exhibit goes on to showcase the strong historical, cultural, and social ties that have developed over time among different generations.
She mentioned that the exhibition serves as more than just a stage for showcasing rare Islamic artifacts; it’s also a chance to contemplate the collective historical heritage of the area. The event underscores the remarkable artistry and innovation that characterized Islamic civilization across different periods.
One of the notable exhibits being shown publicly beyond the borders of the UAE for the very first time include a silver goblet adorned with the imperial insignia of Ottoman Emperor Abdul Hamid II, an elaborately designed hexagonal eating seat made specifically for Al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, along with the initial Islamic coin struck in Baghdad following the Mongol conquest.
Other significant displays feature an eleventh or twelfth-century cat-form incense burner and a thirteenth-century gilded earthenware pitcher, showcasing the rich artistic variety within Islamic culture.
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.
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.
The opening ceremony was attended by Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum of Oman; 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.
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