From Bahrain to Moscow

Bahrain’s Cultural Days in Moscow has kicked off with the opening of the ‘Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages’ exhibition staged at the State Historical Museum in the Russian capital.

The opening was held yesterday (November 19)  in the presence of His Excellency Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, Olga Lyubimova, Russian Minister of Culture, and His Excellency Mr Ahmed Abdulrahman Al Saati, ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Russian Federation…in addition to a number of diplomatic and official figures. 

This cultural programme is organised by Baca in collaboration with the Russian Ministry of Culture, running until today (November 20). This event is part of a memorandum of understanding between the two parties, signed in May during the historic visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain to Russia.

It provides the public in the Russian Federation a glimpse into Bahrain’s cultural treasures, arts, and creativity.

“Bahrain’s Cultural Days in Moscow represent a significant milestone in strengthening the historical and cultural ties that bind us to the Russian Federation, and they also affirm our commitment at the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities to enhance the presence of the Kingdom of Bahrain on the international stage through culture, heritage, and creativity,” said Shaikh Khalifa. “This programme reflects the kingdom's vision of investing in culture as a soft power to encourage human dialogue and strengthen relations between communities.

“In this event, we shed light on Bahrain's rich golden heritage and its history, which has witnessed the passage of many civilizations over the ages.”

His Excellency also pointed out that the Bahraini Cultural Days in Moscow serves as a platform that highlights the kingdom's status as a global cultural centre and promotes its national achievements.

The ‘Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages’ exhibition, which will run for three months, takes its visitors on a unique journey through the history of goldsmithing in Bahrain from the Tylos period about 2000 years ago through to the Islamic era and up to the modern age.

Goldsmithing is one of the oldest crafts in Bahrain. Archaeological excavations have shown the use of jewellery and gold adornments such as rings and bracelets by the inhabitants of the Dilmun civilisation, which flourished around 2000 BC.

Studies have also indicated that women of the Tylos period preferred to wear gold jewellery, pearls, and gemstones.

The exhibition features unique pieces showcasing the skill of Bahraini craftsmen, pieces from Al Mannai Jewellery collection, various tools, as well as documents indicating the recent official interest in the development and organisation of this ancient craft. It sheds light on this vital sector and its important role in supporting the local economy.

Aside from the exhibition, there will be a lecture today titled ‘Gold in Bahrain: Past and Present’ delivered by Talal Mohamed Al Mannai, the managing director of Al Mannai Jewellery.

The lecture will explore Bahrain’s journey in goldsmithing, its legacy, and international standing. The programme will then move to the Victory Museum, where a selection of Bahraini films will be screened, followed by a vibrant evening of Bahraini music.