Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the ‘Eternal Letters: Qur’an Manuscripts from the Abdul Rahman Al Qwais Collection’ exhibition at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation. Upon his arrival, His Highness was welcomed by a distinguished group including Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council, and Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office, among other notable dignitaries and enthusiasts.
According to Emirates News Agency, the exhibition offers a comprehensive cultural and historical journey through 1,300 years of Quranic manuscript history and Arabic calligraphy. It features exhibits from the private collection of Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, meticulously curated over two decades. The collection highlights the diversity and artistic traditions of Arabic and Islamic calligraphy, showcasing influences ranging from China to Andalusia.
Durin
g his tour, His Highness explored the exhibition’s seven sections, which display 81 Quranic manuscripts for the first time. These sections reflect different historical periods and celebrate the heritage and aesthetic value of Arabic calligraphy across various eras and regions. The exhibition includes themes such as “The Early Islamic Centuries,” “The Western Tradition,” and “Ottoman Script Traditions,” among others.
His Highness also received detailed explanations on the evolution of Quranic manuscripts, including noteworthy pieces like the Blue Quran and others commissioned by historical figures. The scripts on display encompass a broad range, from Muhaqqaq and Ta’liq to Naskh and Thuluth, showcasing regional characteristics and shared cultural foundations. Rare pages written in Hijazi and Kufic scripts from the 7th century were also featured, alongside gilded pages from later Islamic periods.
At the conclusion of the opening ceremony, His Highness was presented with a commemorative gift by Abdul Rahman bi
n Mohammed Al Owais. The gift, an Arabic manuscript of the Holy Quran from the Safavid era in Iran, was crafted by Mir Mohammed Saleh Mohammed Hussein Al Mousawi in 1682 AD.
