DUBAI: Manuscripts have long served as windows into the Arab and Islamic world’s pursuit of science, art and philosophy.
In Abu Dhabi, this legacy was recently explored through “Golden Ink: A Journey through Arab and Islamic Manuscripts,” an exhibition organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with McGill University.
“Golden Ink: A Journey through Arab and Islamic Manuscripts” was organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi , in collaboration with McGill University. (Supplied)
“This exhibition reminds us of the Arab world’s incredible contribution to global knowledge,” Fatema Al-Tamimi, director of library management department at DCT Abu Dhabi, told Arab News. “Beyond books, it’s about our shared history of science, art and ideas. It places Abu Dhabi at the heart of celebrating this rich heritage, inspiring both local and international visitors.”
The exhibition, held earlier this month, showcased manuscripts selected for their artistic beauty, scientific value and philosophical significance. “Our selection was done through a thorough curatorial process. We prioritized manuscripts that demonstrated breathtaking artistry, groundbreaking scientific content and profound philosophical depth,” Al-Tamimi said.
The exhibition showcased manuscripts selected for their artistic beauty, scientific value and philosophical significance. (Supplied)
By featuring works that span medicine, astronomy, poetry and faith, the exhibition offered insight into a civilization where art and science were deeply interconnected. “Each piece was chosen as part of a larger narrative, almost like telling a great story,” she explained.
“The manuscripts tell a powerful story of curiosity and connection. They depict a time when different cultures shared knowledge freely. They also prove that science and art thrived together, and that this civilization was a true center of learning and beauty for the world,” Al-Tamimi added.
By featuring works that span medicine, astronomy, poetry and faith, the exhibition offered insight into a civilization where art and science were deeply interconnected. (Supplied)
The exhibition was held in parallel with the Fourth Abu Dhabi International Conference on Manuscripts, which gathered researchers and experts from around the world to discuss the visual arts in Arabic and Islamic manuscripts under the theme “Visual Arts in Arabic and Islamic Manuscripts: Artistic Heritage and Contemporary Influence.”
