Qatar Museums (QM) is showcasing eight artifacts from its Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) collection at the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 in Jeddah, highlighting the influence of mathematics and science on Islamic art within the 'AlMadar' section.

Presented by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the event opened on January 25 at Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport and serves as a significant celebration of the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Islamic civilisation.

Each of the MIA artifacts has been carefully chosen to reflect the theme of Numbers, showcasing the mathematical and scientific excellence embedded in Islamic art. Renowned globally for its exceptional collection, MIA stands as a premier institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Islamic world.

QM noted it is contributing to this prestigious event, with its display featuring in the AlMadar section, a curated segment that explores the intersections of Islamic culture and its rich intellectual heritage. 'AlMadar,' meaning 'the orbit' in Arabic, embodies the dynamic connections that shape the cultural narrative of the Islamic world.

Among the highlights are eight masterpieces from MIA, each offering a window into the numerical and mathematical ingenuity that defines Islamic art and its global influence. These include: Talpur Dynasty Curved Sword, 19th Century CE; Mughal Kris Dagger, 17th Century CE; Kitāb Suwar al-Kawākib al-Thābita – Buyid Astronomical Manuscript, 12th Century CE; Mughal Celestial Globe, 17th and 20th Century CE; Timurid Decorative Brass Bowl, 15th Century CE; North African Zinc Alloy and Wood Printing Block, 19th Century CE; Darfur Sultanate Ornate Sword, 19th and 20th Century CE; and Delhi Sultanate Embroidered Cotton Shirt, 14th Century CE.

According to QM, these artifacts are more than historical objects and are embodiments of a sophisticated understanding of mathematics and its integration into art and daily life. From the celestial globe’s intricate mapping of the stars to the geometric perfection of a Timurid bowl, these objects showcase the deep interplay between science, mathematics, and art in Islamic culture.

In a press statement, MIA director Shaika Nasser al-Nassr said: “Through this contribution, we aim to emphasise the enduring relevance of these contributions, offering a deeper understanding of how numbers and geometry continue to influence our perceptions of the world around us.”

The 2025 Biennale, titled ‘And All That Is In Between’, will run until May 25 and features seven thematic components, including an expansive outdoor exhibition space.