Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 Features Kiswah Exhibit

The Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 is set to open at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on January 25. This event marks milestone as it will showcase the full Kiswah of the Holy Kaaba for the first time outside Mecca. The Biennale runs until May 25 and aims to highlight the richness of Islamic civilisation through historical artefacts and contemporary artworks.

What is the Kiswah?

The Kiswah is the ornate black cloth that envelops the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site. It is considered a pinnacle of Islamic artistry due to its intricate embroidery and inscriptions. The Kiswah is made from silk, gold, and silver threads, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Each year, the Kiswah is ceremonially replaced, maintaining a tradition that dates back centuries.

Historical Significance

The tradition of covering the Kaaba with the Kiswah has ancient roots. The first complete covering is attributed to Tabu Karab Aswad, a pre-Islamic Yemeni king. After the Prophet Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca, he draped the Kaaba with a Yemeni cloth. Over time, various Muslim rulers have contributed to the Kiswah’s design, colour, and material. The Kiswah has evolved, with colours ranging from white and red to the current black.

Manufacturing Process

Today’s Kiswah weighs over 1,000 kg and takes nearly a year to create. It incorporates around 670 kg of silk, 120 kg of gold, and 100 kg of silver. The manufacturing process involves multiple stages, including dyeing, weaving, and embroidery. More than 100 artisans work meticulously to produce the final product, ensuring that Quranic verses are intricately sewn into the fabric.

Annual Replacement Ceremony

The Kiswah is replaced annually on the first day of Muharram. This involves a detailed procedure where the old Kiswah is carefully removed and replaced with the new one. The old Kiswah is preserved in a government warehouse, where it is protected from damage. Portions of the old Kiswah may be distributed as gifts or displayed in museums.

Impact of the Biennale

The Islamic Arts Biennale serves to encourage appreciation for Islamic arts and culture. By presenting the Kiswah alongside other historical artefacts, the event encourages visitors to engage with the rich heritage of Islamic civilisation. The Biennale aims to create a dialogue between tradition and contemporary artistic expressions.

Future Prospects

As the Islamic Arts Biennale continues to grow, it is expected to attract international attention. The fusion of historical artefacts with modern artistic interpretations can potentially enhance the global understanding of Islamic culture. The exhibition of the Kiswah is a very important moment that puts stress on the significance of preserving and celebrating Islamic heritage.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the cultural significance of the Kiswah in Islamic traditions.
2. Explain the role of art exhibitions like the Islamic Arts Biennale in promoting cultural heritage.
3. What are the historical developments in the craftsmanship of the Kiswah? Discuss with examples.
4. What is the significance of the annual replacement of the Kiswah? How does it reflect Islamic values?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the cultural significance of the Kiswah in Islamic traditions.

1. The Kiswah symbolizes the sacredness of the Kaaba, representing Islamic spirituality and devotion.
2. It showcases the pinnacle of Islamic craftsmanship, reflecting the artistic traditions of various cultures.
3. The intricate designs and inscriptions on the Kiswah convey religious texts, enhancing its spiritual significance.
4. As a historical artifact, it connects contemporary Muslims with their heritage and religious practices.
5. The annual replacement ceremony emphasizes the continuity of tradition and communal identity among Muslims.

2. Explain the role of art exhibitions like the Islamic Arts Biennale in promoting cultural heritage.

1. Art exhibitions provide a platform for showcasing the richness of Islamic arts and history to a global audience.
2. They encourage dialogue between traditional and contemporary art forms, enriching cultural understanding.
3. Events like the Biennale encourage collaboration among artists, scholars, and cultural institutions.
4. Such exhibitions raise awareness about the significance of preserving cultural artifacts and heritage.
5. They promote tourism and economic benefits, contributing to the local and national economies.

3. What are the historical developments in the craftsmanship of the Kiswah? Discuss with examples.

1. The Kiswah’s origins trace back to pre-Islamic times, with the first complete covering attributed to King Tabu Karab Aswad.
2. After the Prophet Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca, the practice evolved with various rulers adding their designs and colors.
3. During the Abbasid era, the Kiswah transitioned to black brocade, which remains its color .
4. Egypt became the official producer of the Kiswah in the early 14th century, introducing elaborate transportation traditions.
5. Modern craftsmanship involves advanced techniques and materials, including silk, gold, and silver threads, reflecting technological advancements.

4. What is the significance of the annual replacement of the Kiswah? How does it reflect Islamic values?

1. The annual replacement symbolizes renewal and the ongoing dedication to the sacredness of the Kaaba.
2. It puts stress on the importance of maintaining traditions and rituals in Islamic culture.
3. The meticulous process reflects values of respect, care, and reverence for religious artifacts.
4. It encourages a sense of community as Muslims participate in the ceremonial aspects of the replacement.
5. The preservation of the old Kiswah emphasizes the Islamic principle of safeguarding heritage for future generations.