Ailyn Agonia
Doha
AROUND 70 artistically crafted edged weapons and firearms from Turkey, Iran and India belonging to the period from the 17th to the mid-19th century are on display at the latest exhibition that kicked off at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha on Sunday.
Titled 'Powder and Damask: Islamic Arms and Armour from the Collection of Fadel al Mansoori', this is the first exhibition of a Qatari connoisseur's private collection at MIA.
The exhibits, curated by Dr Mounia Chekhab Abudaya and Julia Tugwell, showcase the beauty of weapons and speak volumes about the art collector Fadel al Mansoori's passion for artistic weaponry.
Mansoori's collection features artefacts that represent some of the best examples of craftsmanship from the Ottoman, Safavid and Mughal empires.
"As my collection grew, I was attracted to the obvious interconnection among the cultures of Turkey, India and Iran which was reflected by the weapons created by the craftsmen from these countries during that period. The artefacts showcased similar styles and tastes despite coming from countries that were culturally very different from each other," the collector remarked.
"I think a work of art's ability to transcend cultures is something that should be treasured and celebrated and I am proud and grateful to have the opportunity to display my collection at such a prestigious venue," he added.
Mansoori's interest in Islamic arms and armoury began six years ago. His passion is rooted in his fascination for Damascus steel, a highly-prized metal, valued for its strength and beauty.
Among the items in his private collection include a Shishane gun (from late 18th century and made of Damascus steel, wood, ivory and brass), khanjar or dagger (from 19th century and adorned with figures wearing fashionable European clothing), separ or shield (from the 19th century and decorated with painted floral design, figures of couples and Persian poetry) and kard or knife (from late 18th century to early 19th century and decorated with gold inlay).
"He takes care of his collection and ensures that these are restored to match the standards of the museum. He has really shown his passion in this collection. Driven solely by his passion, he contacted museums worldwide to get information on how to spot the best objects and how to collect them," the exhibit's co-curator Tugwell said.
Dr Abudaya added,"We were honoured to be entrusted with the care of such an extensive and impressive collection of arms and armoury. As a curator, it's also personally gratifying to see the amazing preservation and care Mansoori dedicated to his collection."
The exhibition will continue until May 12, 2018.