Post by : Maya Rahman

The National Museum in Muscat has inaugurated a captivating exhibition titled “Russia and the Middle East: International Relations and Cultural Influences,” celebrating 40 years of diplomatic ties between Oman and Russia. This event is hosted in collaboration with the Moscow Kremlin Museums, featuring a collection of remarkable artifacts.

The opening ceremony was honored by HH Sayyedah Dr. Mona bint Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and Deputy Chairperson of the National Museum’s Board of Trustees. Her attendance signals the importance of fostering cultural relations between the two nations.

The exhibition is a continuation of the robust cultural exchanges between Oman and Russia, building on the previous showcase titled “The Splendor of Silver: Treasures from the Omani Court,” held in Moscow in July 2024, which highlighted Omani silver craftsmanship linked to the Sultans of Oman.

Showcasing over 80 rare artefacts, many on display for the first time outside Russia, the exhibition includes items such as historical weapons, art pieces, and unique horse decorations preserved for centuries in the treasuries of Russian monarchs. These items have only recently become part of the Armoury Chamber Museum’s collection.

A significant focus of the exhibition is the influence of Eastern art on the jewelry and weapon designs of the Russian royal court during the 16th and 17th centuries. Visitors can also view exhibits on the traditional use of frankincense in Russia, which was historically imported from Oman and played an essential role in cultural practices. The exhibition is scheduled to remain open until 3 April 2026, providing ample time for exploration.

During the event, Oleg Vladimirovich Levin, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Oman, spoke about the rapid growth of cultural bonds between the nations, emphasizing the exhibition's role in showcasing the enduring friendship between the peoples of Oman and Russia. He noted the ongoing efforts to host cultural and artistic events throughout the year, highlighting culture as a unifying bridge between countries.

Dr. Elena Gagarina, General Director of the Moscow Kremlin Museums, shared insights about the exhibition, linking it to the international arts and culture festival “Russian Seasons,” organized by the Russian government to celebrate the milestone of Oman-Russia diplomatic relations. She expressed hope that the exhibition would leave a lasting impression on visitors, contributing to a deeper cultural dialogue.

With around two million visitors annually, the Moscow Kremlin Museums house over 160,000 works of art, with 4,000 pieces on permanent display. The collections span multiple eras, showcasing the rich tapestry of Russian history.

This exhibition at the National Museum marks a significant moment in Oman-Russia cultural relations, offering a unique window into historical heritage and artistic interaction, reinforcing the deep connections between the Middle East and Russia.

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