Power of women in history on display at Sharjah museum

7,000 Years old jewellery displays ancient women’s lifestyle

sharjah — The Sharjah Museums Authority celebrated the International Women’s Day by demonstrating women’s historical significance and contributions through artworks and historical objects.

A 19th century Austrian silver coin known as the Maria Theresa dollar or thaler was displayed to highlight the leading roles women have had in history. Originally minted in 1741 in Austria, the coin became extremely important for trade throughout the Middle East. It was eventually declared an official trade coinage in 1857, one year before it ceased as currency in Austria itself.

In the Gulf region, Maria Theresia became known to community members as the leader woman through her coin. Thaler remained popular until 1920, and highly regarded for its high silver content. Due to its use in the region, a quantity of thalers were minted just for the Gulf in 1920.

The Imperial British Indian Rupees was displayed as another example of a currency that told the story of a ruling woman and was used in the Gulf region. This silver coin began circulating around 1857 as a result of the pearl trade and the gold exchange between local and Indian merchants. The coin remained in circulation throughout the Gulf region until 1947 when Indian regained its independence and after that year, Gulf Rupees replaced the Imperial British Rupee.

The Burqa face mask — it’s precise origin is unknown — both local and regional cultural traditions consider as an item that both protects and adorns a woman’s face. The mask which is made from a special type of Indian cotton or linen cloth, and was dyed with indigo then cut and burnished until golden, gives the opportunity to learn about history and how women have lived once.

An selection of jewellery on display at the Sharjah Heritage Museum which dates back to 7,000 years, tells of the lifestyle women adopted and of the precision of jewellery making profession. Other ancient jewellery items such as necklaces, earrings, anklets and bracelets made from pearls and seashells, are a testament to the UAE’s deep-rooted relationship with sea, as well as the high level of craftsmanship.