RIYADH: “Wahj: Adornment of the Page,” an exhibition of illustrated and miniature Islamic manuscripts featuring some rare and ancient examples, has opened at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies (KFCIRS) in Riyadh.
“The center is rich with a number of priceless historical manuscripts that cannot be found anywhere in the world except at the KFCIRS,” said Prince Abdullah bin Khaled, the center’s director of research.
“This exhibition features decorative manuscripts, specifically. We welcome all visitors to the exhibition, which will be open for six months.”
The event — which was officially opened on Feb. 6 by Prince Turki Al-Faisal, the center’s chairman, and Prince Bader bin Abdullah, the minister of culture — showcases a variety of ornate Islamic manuscripts, including ancient and rare examples, which provide insight into Islamic art and calligraphy.
The 60 exhibits include illustrated manuscripts embellished with gold and featuring different forms of calligraphy from across the centuries and dynasties.
They are just a small selection from the 60,000 precious and historical manuscripts preserved by the center, a collection of international Islamic manuscripts and rare heritage pieces that is considered the largest in the world.
The art of decorating and gilding manuscripts flourished in the Islamic world in the Middle Ages.
The King Faisal Center is one of the most important organizations involved in preserving and displaying rare and unique original Arabic and Islamic manuscripts.
It aims to highlight Islamic heritage and Arab art, along with the contributions of Islamic civilization to science, culture and the arts.
The exhibition will be open to the public for the next six months, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
