ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Louvre Abu Dhabi has unveiled new loans and acquisitions in its galleries, many on view for the first time in the GCC region. Highlighting new stories of cross-cultural connections, the additions aim to reflect the museum’s efforts to showcase the history of human creativity, and attract both first-time and returning visitors to the museum.
Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “As the first universal museum in the Arab world, Louvre Abu Dhabi is committed to curating a diverse and expansive collection through global loans and acquisitions. Our mission is to highlight the rich tapestry of human history spanning different cultures. By regularly introducing new artworks, we continually grow our permanent collection, enriching the experience for our visitors. We deeply appreciate the generosity of our partners, with the support of France museums, and the robust collaboration with cultural institutions worldwide, which are crucial in making these signification artworks accessible by museumgoers and art lovers in the UAE.”
New acquisitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi include a Gold and Silver inlaid Brass Candlestick from Iraq, Mosul, dated from around 1275, highlighting medieval Islamic metalwork. The exquisite piece showcases intricate craftsmanship and sophisticated aesthetic, reflecting the opulence and cultural richness of the period.
Another piece is the Large Arabic Astrolabe Quadrant with Prayer Lines, dated from the 15th to 16th century from Maghreb or Syria. The instrument is designed for astronomical measurement and navigation that played an important role in religious practices to determine prayer times. The piece represents the advanced scientific knowledge and exquisite craftsmanship of the time.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is also displaying the Asante Stool of the Queen Mother from 19th century Ghana. The work embodies the rich heritage and artistic prowess of the Asante people. Crafted from wood and adorned with silver, the piece highlights the attention to detail characteristic of its artisans.
The museum’s collection features loans from partner museums and cultural institutions. Musée du Louvre has contributed to the latest crop of loans with masterpieces that are currently on display in the museum’s galleries. The Philosopher in Contemplation by Rembrandt van Rijn (Leiden 1606 –1669) and the Young Draughtsman Sharpening his Pencil by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin (Paris 1699 – 1779), on loan from the department of paintings at Musée du Louvre.
Other loans include the Colossal Statue of Isis from the Department of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities, and the statue of Mercure from the Sculptures Department of the Musée du Louvre. The Colossal Statue of Isis (117-138 reign of Hadrian). Another small silver bronze sculpture on loan from Musée du Louvre is the Death of Ailly (1800 – 1900) by French sculptor Jean François Théodore Gechter.
In the new rotation of artworks that will take place later this year, Louvre Abu Dhabi will unveil additional acquisitions and loans including ancient, modern and contemporary masterpieces from around the world. Highlights of new acquisitions will include a Hispano-moresque earthenware blue and lustred armorial charger (1456 – 1461) from Valencia; and a Circular Limoges enamel charger depicting the punishment of Niobe by Diana and Appollo (16th century) by Pierre Courtoys, after Giulio Romano.
A highlight of Islamic artwork is the Pyxis in the name of Al-Mughira, on loan from the department of Islamic Arts at Musée du Louvre. The ivory container from Madinat al-Zahra in Spain was crafted in 968 CE and will be on display at Louvre Abu Dhabi for the first time. Its departure from the Musée du Louvre marks a historic moment, allowing visitors in the UAE to appreciate its intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.