Louvre Abu Dhabi to show latest additions in stories

Continuing the display of its collection to the public ahead of its opening, Louvre Abu Dhabi is to show its latest additions in Louvre Abu Dhabi Stories.

Taking place at Manarat Al Saadiyat from 21st June to 30th August, 2015, the showcase of new acquisitions will be divided into two displays: Louvre Abu Dhabi Stories - Al Qalam (21st June – 25th July 2015) and Louvre Abu Dhabi Stories - Immortal Figures (28th July – 30th August 2015).

Both presentations will include the important Fayoum portrait, a fine example of an Egyptian funerary painting that would traditionally have been placed on the face of a mummified body.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Stories - Al Qalam, will explore the art of the written word, featuring a broad selection of textual artworks, including a Quran bifolio, miniatures, and a manuscript. Louvre Abu Dhabi Stories - Immortal Figures, is a celebration of sculptures from across the globe. This selection will include a wooden carving Uli statue from New Ireland, PNG, a Nepalese gilt copper figure of Maitreya, and an Italian bust of Saint Peter Martyr. The selected artworks that will be shown during the two displays were acquired in 2014 as part of the ongoing acquisitions for Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Celine Pouyat, Senior Project Manager, Louvre Abu Dhabi, said, "The objects on display exemplify how artworks created by different civilisations can complement one another in their composition, style and representation. Together, these artistic creations can be considered as a harmonised symphony."

Hissa Al Dhaheri, Programmes Manager, Louvre Abu Dhabi, said, "Supported by an interactive public programme developed to engage communities of all backgrounds, interests and age, Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to showcase its growing collection to local and international audiences. This display will give the public the opportunity to view the museum's growing permanent collection ahead of its opening, broadening awareness of both the museum's curatorial identity and narrative."

Louvre Abu Dhabi's permanent collection comprises more than 500 artworks which will be complemented by approximately 300 loans from major French institutions in its opening year. The museum will adopt a unique curatorial trail that moves away from the traditional compartmentalisation of artworks and artefacts by their geographical origins or traditional chronologies of art history; instead, works from different cultures and civilisations will be shown side by side to highlight the similarities and differences in how common themes are explored.
Source: WAM