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.