Moscow –
The National Museum of Oman inaugurated the exhibition ‘The Splendour of Silver: Treasures from the Omani Court’ at the Moscow Kremlin Museums last Thursday.
The event, part of ‘Oman Day’, was held under the patronage of Olga Lyubimova, Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation. The exhibition, celebrating the rich tradition of Omani silver craftsmanship, will run until September 29, 2024.
The exhibition showcases a curated collection of Omani silver items from Muscat and Zanzibar, highlighting their historical significance and the craftsmanship of Omani silversmiths. It offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse roles of silver, from royal courts to everyday life, as a symbol of beauty and protection.
The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including H H Dr Mona bint Fahd al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum; Jamal bin Hassan al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum; H E Hamood bin Salim al Towaiya, Ambassador of Oman to Russia; Sergei Ivanov, Special Representative of the President of Russia for Environmental Protection, Ecology, and Transport; Vladimir Osintsev, Deputy Minister of Culture of Russia; and Dr Elena Gagarina, Director-General of the Kremlin Museums. Several officials, along with cultural and museum enthusiasts, were also present.
Divided into five main sections, the exhibition includes:
The Omani Khanjar: This section highlights the evolution of the Omani khanjar, the emblem of the Sultanate featuring two crossed swords and a dagger. It includes historical references, such as Dutch East India Company documents from 1672, and various types of khanjars, including the Saidi khanjar and a Janbiya gifted by former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh to the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said.
The Culture of Scent: This section focuses on the significance of fragrances in Omani culture. It features perfume bottles from 1983 made of crystal, 24-karat gold, and silver, representing Amouage’s first aromatic innovations. The men’s perfume bottle, inspired by the Omani khanjar and containing frankincense, rose, and amber, is particularly notable.
The Art of Silversmithing: This section highlights the craftsmanship of Omani silversmiths, showcasing their intricate work and the diverse uses of silver in Omani society.
Traditional Fashionwear: This section emphasizes the cultural and historical significance of traditional Omani attire, showcasing garments adorned with silver.
Nobility Fashionwear in East Africa: This section explores the fashion of prominent Omani figures in East Africa during the historical period.
