

On Saturday, the National Museum inaugurated the 'Russian Seasons' programme, marking a significant cultural collaboration between the Sultanate of Oman and the Russian Federation. This international cultural project, under the auspices of the Russian Ministry of Culture, aims to showcase Russia's rich heritage while fostering global cultural exchange.
As part of the launch, the State Hermitage Museum’s Corner was unveiled at the National Museum, highlighting the enduring ties between Russia and the East. The exhibition, titled 'Gifts of Bukharan and Central Asian Emirs to the Russian Imperial Court,' displays extraordinary artefacts, including exquisite gifts presented to the Russian Tsars by the rulers of Bukhara, Khiva and Kokand.
The event was graced by Olga Lyubimova, the Russian Minister of Culture, alongside various dignitaries, cultural experts and media representatives. Jamal bin Hassan al Mousawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum, emphasised the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Today, we celebrate the inauguration of the 'Russian Seasons' and the opening of the second exhibition, which highlights our shared history and cultural legacy.”
The Russian Minister expressed her hopes that the "Russian Seasons" would leave lasting impressions on the people of Oman, further strengthening ties between the two nations. This programme, which spans multiple cultural fields, is aligned with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Oman and Russia.
In response to a question from Observer during the press conference, Lyubimova noted that the upcoming 'Russian Seasons' events would focus on programmes for children, as well as music. She highlighted that musical performances and events would be hosted at various locations across Oman throughout the year, adding a lively dimension to the initiative.
Al Mousawi added that the exhibition marks the second collaboration between the National Museum and Russia, following the success of the previous exhibition, which spotlighted masterpieces of Islamic civilisation in Russia. This latest exhibition coincides with the ongoing "Oman Gallery" exhibition at the State Hermitage Museum, titled "The Omani Empire Between Asia and Africa." This parallel exhibition, running until February 16, 2025, emphasises Oman’s historical role as a cultural and economic bridge between the Arabian Peninsula, West Asia and East Africa.
The exhibition showcased remarkable artefacts such as a Persian knife with Central Asian craftsmanship, a Bukhara aigrette adorned with precious stones, a Bukhara enamel tray and a 1910 Bukhara samovar, reflecting the lavish exchanges between Central Asia and Imperial Russia.
The partnership between the National Museum and Russia also includes plans to exhibit Omani modern art in Russia, fostering cultural diplomacy through art and exhibitions.
The evening’s events also featured a live performance by the Russian Berlin Quartet and a screening of the documentary 'Al Khanjar,' produced by Russia Today Arabic, exploring Omani khanjars.
This yearlong cultural initiative, featuring exhibitions, music, theatre and educational programmes, promises to continue to inspire cross-cultural dialogue, with more than 13 million viewers engaging in past Russian Seasons events worldwide.
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