Oman National Museum Celebrates Omani Culture In St. Petersburg
The National Museum orchestrated a cultural soirée at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, spotlighting the rich tapestry of Omani culture. Dubbed the "Omani Cultural Evening," this event was a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Moscow, and the prestigious State Hermitage Museum. This cultural showcase was part of Oman’s distinguished role as the guest of honour at the 27th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum from June 5th to June 8th.
The "Oman Hall" initiative, initiated at the Hermitage Museum in 2020, played a pivotal role in this cultural exchange. The latest showcase, "The Omani Empire: Asia and Africa," unveiled in December 2023, marked the second edition of this initiative. The Omani delegation, led by Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and on the Russian front by Maxim Gennadievich Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development, underscored the profound ties and friendship between the National Museum and the State Hermitage Museum.
Jamal Hassan Al Moosawi, Secretary General of the National Museum, in his address, highlighted the theme of the second Oman Hall edition and underscored the cultural exchange’s role in showcasing the positive human experiences in a multipolar world. This not only aligns with the 27th forum's main theme but also amplifies the historical significance of the Omani Empire in Asia and Africa.
The evening saw performances from the Omani musical group "Skills," led by Yusuf Said Al Foori, enhancing the cultural immersion. Guests had the opportunity to explore the "Oman Hall" and the "Omani Empire: Asia and Africa" exhibition. This exhibit displayed the intercontinental empire's expansive history, emphasizing the Omanis' instrumental role in expelling the Portuguese from East Africa and their cultural influence across social, religious, political, economic, and architectural domains.
The exhibition boasted 28 artefacts that narrate the saga of the Omani Empire, with notable pieces that include artefacts from the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, a curved single-edged sword "Kittarah" dating back to the al-Busaid dynasty, and personal items belonging to Sultan Hamoud bin Mohammed al-Busaidi and Sayyida Salma bint Said al-Busaidi, among others.
In a significant move during the economic forum, a new agreement was inked with the State Hermitage Museum to inaugurate the second "Hermitage Corner" exhibition at the National Museum in October. This exhibition will delve into the historical exchanges between the Central Asian khanates and the Russian imperial court in St. Petersburg. The Hermitage Museum, renowned for its extensive collection spanning various civilisations and epochs, attracts millions of visitors annually and is a beacon of cultural and historical preservation.
The event was graced by dignitaries including Hamood Salim Al Towaiya, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Russian Federation; Faisal Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and other notable figures from both Oman and Russia.
This cultural evening and the "Oman Hall" initiative underscore the National Museum's commitment to fostering international cultural cooperation and understanding. By showcasing Oman's rich heritage and historical significance through such exhibitions, the initiative not only enhances cultural dialogue but also presents a comprehensive view of Oman’s contributions to global history.
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