ARABIAN TIMES NEWS NETWORK
The exhibition “Between Two Masterpieces: The Origins of the House of Islamic Antiquities” was inaugurated recently at the Amricani Cultural Center in downtown Kuwait City’s historic Qibla area, marking a significant cultural moment for the country. The exhibition was held under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, underscoring the State of Kuwait’s enduring commitment to the preservation and promotion of Islamic heritage.
Crown Prince was warmly received by acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdul Rahman Badah Al-Mutairi, and the General Supervisor of the House of Islamic Antiquities, Sheikha Hessa Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. Their presence reflected the high-level official support accorded to cultural and historical initiatives in the country.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering of senior officials and dignitaries, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sharida Abdullah Al-Moasherji, Head of the Crown Prince’s Diwan Sheikh Thamer Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Nader Abdullah Al-Jalal, and Minister of Education Sayed Jalal Sayed Al-Tabtabaei. The wide representation from various state institutions highlighted the national importance of the exhibition.
The event commenced with the playing of the Kuwaiti national anthem, setting a solemn and patriotic tone, followed by the screening of a documentary film. The documentary traced the remarkable journey of the Al-Sabah Archaeological Group and chronicled the founding and evolution of the House of Islamic Antiquities, offering attendees valuable insight into the vision and dedication that shaped one of the region’s most respected cultural institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Badr Ahmed Al-Baijan, Head of the Founding Committee of the Friends of the House of Islamic Antiquities, paid heartfelt tribute to the late Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. He praised the late leader’s foresight and passion for culture, emphasizing that his efforts laid the foundation for Kuwait’s internationally acclaimed achievements in preserving Islamic art and history.
The exhibition stands as a testament to Kuwait’s role as a cultural bridge between civilizations, showcasing the depth and richness of Islamic heritage. Through this initiative, the House of Islamic Antiquities continues to affirm its mission of safeguarding history while inspiring future generations to value and celebrate their shared cultural legacy.
