Dubai: The lofty contribution by Uzbekistan to Islamic heritage was revealed on Sunday during an exhibition of rare calligraphy masterpieces, opened by Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture.
Titled ‘Masterpieces of Eastern Calligraphy and Miniature Art: Traditional Culture of Uzbekistan', the exhibition included a magnificent robe of the last Emir from Bukhara (ancient historical city and Unesco World Heritage Site); medieval miniatures; and Zerafshan (graphics of sprayed gold particles).
The event was organised by the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation in cooperation with Dubai Culture and the Uzbekistan Fund Forum for Arts and Culture (Fund Forum) with an aim to familiarise residents with other cultures, especially those relevant to the region.
Gulnara Karimova, Chairperson of the Fund Forum said, "Uzbekistan is known as one of the brightest spots of Islamic culture and civilisation in the world. This exhibition opens a new chapter in our interlinked Islamic history. Both our countries share aspiration for progress while retaining tradition."
The exhibition is the Fund Forum's first major project in the UAE. There are three chapters to the exhibition, explained Elmira Akhmedova, Director of the Centre of National Arts, under the Fund Forum. "These are medieval manuscripts, rarities, and traditional art. There are more than 60 medieval calligraphic pieces in the first chapter; about 55 rare pieces, a few that have never been displayed outside Uzbekistan, in the second chapter; and an extensive collection of traditional handmade crafts from all regions, of which a few art forms have been recently revived, in the third chapter."
She added, "Many of the pieces are on loan from various collections both private and state. These three chapters portray the legacy of ancient Islamic influence and our country's heritage."
Salem Belyouha, projects and events director of Dubai Culture told Gulf News, that Uzbekistan has a pivotal role in the history of Islam. "The country has produced renowned scholars such as Al Imam Al Bukhari who is considered a major reference point in the documentation of the Holy Quran and Hadith."Speaking on the importance of such historical exhibits, he said it is the basis of cultural exchange programmes.
The event presented Samples of Eastern Calligraphy and Miniature Art, a book by the Forum Fund containing rare samples of calligraphy and samples of the Quran design. The evening also included Uzbekistan folklore performances.
