Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (FBQ Museum) is set to offer a glimpse into the world of ancient and rare lamps and objects of lighting at its new and fascinating exhibition titled ‘From Darkness to Light’ which opens on June11.
All the pieces to be displayed in the exhibition comes from the extensive Sheikh Faisal collection including fine antique ceramic and ornate metal lamps, beautiful mosque lamps, candleholders, chandeliers and modern lamps from different parts of the ancient and medieval Islamic worlds and from other parts of central Asia and Europe.
The exhibition will show how lamps and other objects providing light offer the perfect balance between practicality and exquisite artistry. While the main function of lamps throughout history was to provide light and help people manage their life at night, lamps were also used for different reasons such as rituals and other religious practices. Some were even used for medical purposes.
The tradition of using lamps specially made for Ramadan in Islamic societies has a long historical and cultural background. These will also be represented and highlighted in this exhibition.
The FBQ Museum management said they wanted to open this exhibition before Ramadan as the collection includes many beautiful lamps that were either made for Ramadan or used in ancient religious practices. Lamps have always been essential objects for the world and go back to time immemorial.
Bringing the Museum’s range of stunning antique lamps, candleholders and chandeliers together for the exhibition allows visitors to focus on their early history and superb decorative artistry. Candleholders and mosque lamps from the Islamic periods are also included, some richly inscribed with writing and religious texts. Others are stunningly decorated with different motifs and intricate patterns.
The Museum is encouragingfamilies to come and view the lamps in Ramadan and learn about their history.
All the lamps and lighting objects in the exhibition are highlighted and their origins described. There will also be lamps and lanterns from the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century so that visitors can compare the new techniques in lamp making with those of ancient times.
During Ramadan Period and for every Friday, FBQ Museum will be hosting an Iftar followed by a tour of the lamps exhibition by the curator and a tour of the Islamic Manuscripts section of the museum.
At the end of the tours lasting about two hours, families can enjoy creative time with their children at the FBQ Museum education department, where a diversity of workshops will happen. Booking is essential, call the museum for pricing details and availability.
The exhibition located at the Museum in Shahaniya will run until August 29. It will be open from 10am to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday.
The Peninsula
