Sharjah’s Deputy Ruler inaugurates Islamic art exhibition in Oman

Photo: Sharjah Government Media Bureau

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the 'Masterpieces of Islamic Art from the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization' exhibition on Monday at the National Museum of Oman. This special exhibition, which will run until May, highlights the strong cultural and historical ties between the UAE and Oman. It also showcases their joint efforts in preserving heritage and promoting Islamic art and culture.

The opening ceremony started with a welcome speech by Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman. He warmly greeted His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi and other attendees. In his speech, Al Moosawi spoke about the beauty and evolution of Islamic art, explaining that this exhibition was made possible through the collaboration between the National Museum of Oman and the Sharjah Museums Authority.

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The exhibition is divided into three sections: Calligraphic Arts, Sciences and Innovations, and Harmony and Diversity. Each section displays rare artefacts that represent the artistic and intellectual achievements of Islamic civilization over centuries. Al Moosawi emphasized that this exhibition aligns with the National Museum’s goal of promoting cultural understanding and awareness of Islamic heritage.

Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, expressed her happiness in bringing this exhibition to Oman. She highlighted the close relationship between the UAE and Oman, strengthened by their shared history and the vision of their leaders. Deemas mentioned that the inspiration for this exhibition came from the visit of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to Oman. His belief in using culture and art as a bridge between nations played a key role in organizing this event.

Deemas further explained that the exhibition is not just about displaying ancient artefacts. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the region’s shared history and the incredible craftsmanship of past Islamic artists. The showcased items provide insight into how art and creativity flourished in Islamic civilization throughout history.

Among the most remarkable artefacts on display are a silver cup featuring the imperial signature (tughra) of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, a six-sided dining chair made for Al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, and the first Islamic dirham minted in Baghdad after the Mongol invasion. Other notable pieces include an 11th or 12th-century feline-shaped incense burner and a 13th-century gilded ceramic ewer. These artefacts reflect the artistic richness and diversity of Islamic culture.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi took a guided tour of the exhibition. He was given detailed explanations about the 82 rare artefacts, which include Islamic manuscripts, metalwork, ceramics, and historical coins. Each of these items tells a unique story of the artistic and cultural development of Islamic civilizations.

This exhibition not only celebrates the strong bond between the UAE and Oman but also fulfills the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who believes in promoting cultural cooperation and using art to encourage dialogue and mutual understanding. Visitors to the exhibition will have the chance to explore the deep artistic and historical aspects of Islamic civilization through carefully chosen artefacts that narrate centuries of Islamic history.

Additionally, this exhibition promotes knowledge exchange and strengthens cultural ties between different institutions. It highlights the achievements of Islamic civilization while encouraging collaboration with regional and international cultural organizations. By raising awareness about Islamic heritage, the event helps deepen people’s understanding of the artistic traditions that have shaped the Islamic world.

The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including 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; and Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman. Many senior officials and diplomats were also present at this significant cultural event.