The Vatican Apostolic Library Showcases Treasures at the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
Eleven works from the Vatican Apostolic Library are currently being featured at the second Islamic Arts Biennale, which is taking place from January 25 to May 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. These works include ancient translations of the Quran, texts on astronomy, and a remarkable 17th-century map of the River Nile that has been meticulously restored for this occasion.
By Paolo Ondarza
Archbishop Angelo Zani, the Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church, described the Library’s participation in the AlMadar section of the Islamic Arts Biennale as a journey to rediscover the roots of history and promote healing from the wounds of hatred and division. The theme of the exhibition, “And All That Is In Between,” draws inspiration from a phrase found multiple times in the Qur’an, emphasizing the all-encompassing majesty of creation.
Arts, Faiths, and Cultures in Dialogue
The Biennale, divided into seven sections, offers a unique opportunity to admire artifacts from Islamic holy sites like Mecca and Medina, as well as pieces loaned from over thirty international institutions across twenty countries. Set in the iconic Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, the exhibition attracts millions of Muslim pilgrims annually.
In the AlMadar section, the Vatican Apostolic Library showcases significant works aligned with the event’s goals of promoting diversity in global Islamic arts and fostering understanding among different cultures. The exhibition aims to encourage collaboration and appreciation of artistic expressions across various cultures.
Numbers and Calculations
The AlMadar section explores the representation of numbers throughout history, delving into natural calculations, applications in Islamic culture, mathematics, architecture, music, design, celestial and terrestrial mapping, ocean navigation, trade, and geometric patterns in Quranic decoration. Spanning 110,000 square meters of exhibition space, this section offers a comprehensive look at the significance of numbers in various cultural contexts.
The Library of Humanity
Founded in 1451 by Pope Nicholas V, the Vatican Apostolic Library was established to make texts and volumes accessible to researchers and scholars. Archbishop Zani emphasizes that the Library was designed as a repository of human knowledge, transcending theological boundaries. The invitation to participate in the Biennale presented an opportunity for cultural diplomacy and dialogue, showcasing the Library’s unique treasures to promote understanding and unity among diverse perspectives.
The Six-Meter Map of the River Nile
Among the Library’s contributions to the Biennale are 11 works, with the highlight being a nearly six-meter-long map of the Nile. Dating back to the late 17th century, this map was acquired in Constantinople by Lebanese librarian Giuseppe Alemanni in 1739. The map, now restored and displayed outside the Vatican for the first time, provides insights into the extensive journey of Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi across Egypt in 1683.
The Restoration
Prior to its display in Jeddah, the map of the Nile underwent meticulous restoration funded by the Saudi government. The restoration process, carried out by the Vatican Apostolic Library’s Restoration Laboratory, involved removing previous attachments, repairing damage, cleaning the surface, and enhancing the map’s details. The restored map now showcases significant landmarks along the Nile, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of the region.
A Study Opportunity
Leading the Restoration Laboratory, Ángela Núñez Gaitán highlights the importance of restoration as a study opportunity. The meticulous process of restoring the map allowed for a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural significance, revealing hidden details and enhancing the map’s beauty.
Precious Translations of the Quran
In addition to the map, the Library also restored several precious translations of the Quran, including a Greek translation and a Latin translation by a 7th-century author. These manuscripts highlight the cultural exchange and intellectual engagement between different communities, offering insights into the intricate relationships between faiths and languages.
Numbers and Stars
The exhibition also features medieval works on astronomy and manuscripts that illustrate the connection between numbers and astronomy. The display of works by Fibonacci and Copernicus underscores the intercultural exchange that has shaped our understanding of the world, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration in enriching human knowledge.
Dialogue and Exchange
Frère Adrien de Fouchier of the Vatican Apostolic Library emphasizes the interconnectedness of cultures and the role of dialogue in promoting mutual understanding. The display of works from different traditions highlights the shared history of humanity and the contributions of diverse cultures to the development of knowledge and understanding.
Recovering the Roots of History
Amidst the challenges facing our world today, Archbishop Angelo Zani reflects on the importance of libraries in recovering the roots of history to prevent the repetition of past mistakes. The Library’s participation in the Biennale aligns with the theme of hope, emphasizing the need for dialogue, peace-building, and cultural exchange in creating a more harmonious world.
Creating Connections
Don Mauro Mantovani underscores the significance of the Library’s participation in the Biennale, emphasizing the theme of creating connections and promoting cultural exchange. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the power of dialogue and collaboration in enriching human experiences and fostering a deeper appreciation of diverse cultures.
