Rare maps and manuscripts are marvels in their own write
▶ Collection of rarities features a 17th century Quran from Morocco and a first edition of 1,001 Arabian Nights
Some of the rarest manuscripts in the world have been included in a new exhibit in Abu Dhabi.
From editions of the Quran dating back hundreds of years to the first edition of 1,001 Arabian Nights, the unique display offers a breathtaking view of ancient Islamic works.
Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism, the exhibition opened yesterday and runs until February 15.
The 50 manuscripts are on loan from Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies, and the Juma Al Majid Establishment in the UAE.
“This the first ever exhibition of such manuscripts in Abu Dhabi,” said Shaikha Al Mehairi, a library director at the Department of Culture and Tourism.
“Our aim is to highlight just how precious these pieces are. So many are stolen, lost or destroyed by conflict that we have to treasure what we have.”
The collection, which includes maps and books worth millions of dirhams, is on display at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
The works are part of the UAE’s bid to promote and protect its rich cultural heritage, allowing residents and tourists to learn more about the country’s past.
In 2017, the UAE pledged US$15 million (Dh55.1m) to better protect heritage sites around the world from war and extremism.
Signatories to the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas vowed to conserve and restore sites at risk from armed conflict.
“It’s really important to highlight the calligraphy of our manuscripts, educating the public on their cultural heritage,” Ms Al Mehairi said.
“It’s crucial for any nation to understand their past and how their culture has developed.
“Our geographic boundaries may be new but previous civilisations have made great contributions to who we are, and we can trace this through the manuscripts.”
Next to the main site, visitors with deep pockets can buy other unique items from a variety of specialists.
Atlases, 15th century maps and sea charts are all for sale by London dealer Daniel Crouch Rare Books, which recently sold a map to the Louvre Abu Dhabi for about $10m.
Nearby, Peter Harrington Rare Books is selling the first edition of The Prophet, by Lebanese-American poet Khalil Gibran, for more than Dh100,000.
“We are trying to expand in the Middle East,” said Ben Houston, who represents Peter Harrington Rare Books. “There’s a burgeoning market for rare books in the region.”
Ms Al Mehairi said: “It’s a growing niche but more and more Emiratis are interested in manuscripts. These exhibitions encourage that.”