Starting this November, the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar will host the “Splendors of the Atlas: A Journey Through Morocco’s Heritage” exhibition, showcasing over 200 pieces of art that celebrate Morocco’s rich cultural history.
This extensive exhibition, open to the public until March 8, 2025, will take visitors on a journey through Morocco’s heritage, highlighting the diverse influences that have shaped the country’s unique identity. Organized as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the exhibition features artifacts, manuscripts, instruments, jewelry, and photographs that narrate the history, society, and artistic expressions of Morocco, emphasizing its ongoing cultural contributions.
“Splendors of the Atlas” will display a collection of never-before-seen pieces in Qatar, borrowed from various Moroccan institutions such as the National Foundation of Museums and the National Library of Rabat. Additionally, unique works from the collections of Qatar Museums, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the forthcoming Lusail Museum will be featured. The exhibition’s curator is Dr. Monia Chokhab Aboudi, the Deputy Director of Museum Affairs at the Museum of Islamic Art.
Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of the Years of Culture initiative and the Qatar Museums Board of Trustees, expressed her excitement about the collaboration with Moroccan institutions. “This partnership during the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture 2024 allows Qataris and residents to gain a deeper understanding of the rich Islamic traditions of our North African neighbors. Our shared commitment to expanding knowledge, scientific discovery, and artistic excellence has created a fertile ground for this year’s cultural program,” she stated.
The Years of Culture initiative aims to foster lasting cultural partnerships between Qatar and other countries, promoting mutual respect and understanding while encouraging unity among diverse cultures.
Sheikha Nasser Al Nasr, Director of the Museum of Islamic Art, emphasized that the museum is the perfect venue for this magnificent exhibition, dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and disseminating the world’s Islamic cultures. She highlighted the exhibition’s goal of showcasing Morocco’s multifaceted cultural identity, offering visitors the chance to explore the country’s rich heritage. The exhibition aims to bridge the past and present, inviting the public to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and enduring global influence of Moroccan culture.
“Splendors of the Atlas” is organized into five sections, each addressing a specific theme and illustrating Morocco’s diverse and interconnected cultures and their lasting impact on contemporary life:
- “Faces of Morocco: Nature and Society” – This introductory section features captivating photographs by Bruno Barbey, Irving Penn, Lalla Essaydi, Mous Lamrabat, and Mounir Raji, depicting Morocco’s environmental diversity and contemporary populations. It offers insights into the daily lives of Arab and Berber communities and the landscapes they inhabit.
- “Spirit of Morocco: Kings, Saints, and Thinkers” – This section explores the history of Morocco’s ruling dynasty, which has fostered religious knowledge and scientific advancements in cities like Fez and Marrakech. It highlights how Moroccan leaders, direct descendants of the Prophet Mohammed, have paved the way for scientific research in fields such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. It focuses on higher education institutions like the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded by Fatima Al-Fihriya in 859, the world’s oldest continuously operating university.
- “Fabric of Traditions: Moroccan Craftsmanship” – The largest section, exploring the central role of craftsmanship in Moroccan culture. It showcases industries passed down through generations, including leather, textiles, carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and woodwork. This section features traditional clothing and jewelry, demonstrating how designers have preserved traditional costumes while adapting them for contemporary needs. The design draws inspiration from Moroccan craft workshops and markets, offering an immersive experience.
- “Traditional Sounds of Morocco” – A presentation of musical instruments from the Dar Jamai Museum in Meknes, used in various musical styles from Andalusian symphonies to Gnawa music from Southern Morocco. Accompanied by videos, this section provides a glimpse into the distinctive musical heritage of different regions.
- “Homage to Contemporary Moroccan Craftsmanship” – This section highlights modern Moroccan craftsmanship, featuring seven commissioned works by Moroccan designer Noureddine Amir. These pieces adhere to traditional craftsmanship standards while incorporating innovative elements, creating new and striking abstract works. Suspended from the ceiling and accompanied by light installations, they allow visitors to appreciate the texture and techniques of traditional textiles.
A companion book will include short essays on the themes of the main sections, along with photos and detailed information about each exhibited piece. Many items from the Qatar Museums collections will be displayed for the first time.
