Museum of Islamic Art

I jumped straight into exploring Doha and went to the Museum of Islamic Art over the weekend.   I. M. Pei came out of retirement to design the building.  The building is stunning.  Admission is free! Check the website for opening times as these change during holidays and weekends. On the first floor are the temporary exhibitions gallery, gift shop and the café.  The next floor is based on themes found in the artifacts such as science and pattern.  The third floor contains artifacts from the different countries in the region.  Steel and Gold, a traveling exhibit, was on the fourth floor.  While I could describe the galleries, I think it is best to let the pictures speak for me.

Illuminated Shamsa from India, 17th Century

Glass Document Holder, Iran, circa 6th-8th Century

Illuminated manuscript

Qur’an from India

Miniature manuscript

Tile

Qur’an from either Iran or Iraq, 13th century

Miniature Qur’an

Armoured horse and rider

Gold, diamond, emerald, pearls, and enamel India necklace, 19th century

Here a few pictures of the building