Collection
highlights
From deep prehistory to contemporary art, discover objects in a chronological dialogue between cultures.
Nine highlights
Choose an object to explore its origins, material and place in human history.
109th–10th centuriesPage of the Blue Quran
Gold calligraphy glows against indigo parchment in one of the most celebrated manuscripts of Islamic art.
Discover its story
11c. 1000–1200Monumental Lion
A powerful bronze lion that may once have animated water as part of a fountain.
Discover its story
1215th–16th centuriesOttoman Armour for Rider and Horse
Armour for horse and rider reveals the engineering, ceremony and visual authority of Ottoman warfare.
Discover its story
131st century BCEHead of a Ptolemaic Queen: Cleopatra VII?
An idealised royal portrait raises an irresistible question: could this be Cleopatra VII?
Discover its story
14c. 1648–1656Head of a Young Man with Clasped Hands
A small, intimate study attributed to Rembrandt’s circle captures concentration through light and gesture.
Discover its story
152013Food for Thought — Al Muallaqat
Manal AlDowayan turns everyday cookware into a monumental meditation on memory and Arabic poetry.
Discover its story
16c. 475–221 BCEWinged Dragon
A dynamic mythical creature shows how ancient metalworkers translated movement and power into bronze.
Discover its story
17c. 590–580 BCEVase with Animals and Armed Horsemen
Bands of animals and horsemen turn a compact Greek vessel into a vivid narrative surface.
Discover its story
18c. 1560Portrait of an African Woman
This rare Renaissance portrait preserves an individual presence while inviting questions about identity and representation.
Discover its story