Muscat: The National Museum, in partnership with the Italian Embassy in Muscat, will present an exhibition titled 'DIVA! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery' on 9 February 2025, showcasing the elegance and innovation of Italian fashion.
The inauguration ceremony was held under the esteemed patronage of Her Highness Sayyidah Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al-Said, who serves as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and is the Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum.
The event attracted numerous cultural and artistic enthusiasts. The exhibition will be open to the public until 9 March 2025.
Curated by Professor Alba Cappellieri, a Professor of Jewellery Design at Politecnico di Milano and the Director of the Vicenza Museum of Jewellery, the exhibition features over 100 distinctive pieces of Italian fashion jewellery.
These pieces illustrate the aesthetic and cultural shifts in contemporary Italian jewellery, demonstrating how the style has transformed in response to societal changes and advancements in jewellery-making technology.
The exhibition honors the artistry and ingenuity that characterize modern Italian jewellery, tracing its evolution from the 1950s to the present day.
During his address at the opening ceremony, H.E. Pierluigi D’Elia, the Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the Sultanate of Oman, stated: "The exhibition celebrates beauty, creativity, and Italian craftsmanship, emphasizing how art transcends borders to forge a universal language that embodies culture, harmony, innovation, and beauty."
He remarked that collaborating with the National Museum and Professor Alba Cappellieri to present this exceptional exhibition in the Sultanate of Oman is a privilege. The aim is to foster a greater appreciation for the artistry and innovation inherent in Italian jewellery.
Jamal bin Hassan Al-Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum, highlighted the significance of hosting 'DIVA! Italian Glamour in Fashion Jewellery'.
He pointed out that the exhibition showcases the beauty and creativity of Italian craftsmanship in jewellery-making, illustrating a remarkable fusion of tradition and modernity, which offers a valuable opportunity to experience the distinctive allure of Italian artistry.
He further mentioned that the exhibition is anticipated to inspire both visitors and Omani artisans, enhancing their understanding of the history and artistry of Italian jewellery and its substantial impact on global culture. He expressed eagerness for ongoing collaboration that promotes cultural exchange between the two nations.
Professor Alba Cappellieri also noted that contemporary jewellery transcends mere adornment, serving as a unique artefact that reflects the identity of a progressive and cultured society.
She described 'Diva!' as an exploration into the essence of Italian creativity, honoring the narratives of the artisans and designers who have contributed to its evolution.
She conveyed her delight in sharing this celebration of Italian glamour with the people of Oman.
This exhibition, supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, symbolizes a cultural exchange between the Italian Republic and the Sultanate of Oman, reinforcing the ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
It also provides visitors with the chance to delve into the artistic and aesthetic heritage of modern Italian jewellery, recognized as a key indicator of Italy's global creative influence.