MUSCAT, Nov 3
In celebration of Sur’s designation as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, the National Museum has launched a new exhibition, 'Sur in the Memory of Postal Stamps,' inviting visitors on a historical and cultural journey through the art of philately.
Running until November 14, the exhibition illuminates Sur’s rich heritage through a rare collection of postage stamps curated by Abdullah bin Saeed al Saadi, a noted member of Friends of Oman Museums and an Arabic language supervisor in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. Each stamp represents a unique aspect of Sur’s cultural identity, revealing layers of Omani tradition and its significance to the region and beyond.
The exhibition’s inauguration, attended by Dr Yahya bin Badr al Maawali, Governor of Al Sharqiyah South, along with local dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts, reflects Oman’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its past. Stamps such as the 1996 'Omani Ships' issue celebrate Sur’s historical prominence in shipbuilding and its role in linking Oman to global trade networks. The stamp featuring 'Ganja,' a traditional Omani vessel, recalls Sur’s heritage in craftsmanship and maritime navigation, symbolising the city’s key role in fostering cultural exchanges across the Indian Ocean.
In addition to maritime themes, the exhibition presents the 'Sur Dagger' stamp from 2001, which honours the artistry of Omani daggers, or khanjars, a cultural emblem in Sur and throughout Oman. The khanjar is more than a weapon; it represents a deeply-rooted craft passed down through generations, embodying pride, identity, and tradition in Oman.
Dr Fatma bint Mohammed al Balushiyah, Director General of Museum Affairs, emphasised the significance of this collection: “This exhibition aims to evoke memories of a time when postal stamps were more than symbols of communication — they were reflections of identity, heritage, and legacy. Each stamp carries with it stories of origin and pride, connecting us to the essence of Sur.”
Among other notable stamps, the 'Omani Aflaj' stamp sheds light on Oman’s ancient water management systems, featuring Falaj Al Jaylah, a Unesco World Heritage Site in Sur. This piece captures the ingenuity of Oman’s traditional aflaj irrigation methods, a testament to the resourcefulness of the Omani people in arid environments. The 2023 'Omani Writing Alphabet' stamp further explores Oman’s intellectual heritage, emphasising Sur’s historical role in connecting Oman with other cultures through trade and maritime endeavours.
The exhibit’s collection also highlights Omani scholarly achievements with stamps such as the 'Omani Manuscripts' stamp, which features Maadin Al Asrar fi Uloom Al Bihar (The Mine of Secrets in Marine Sciences), a renowned manuscript by Sur native Nasser bin Ali al Kharousi. This manuscript underscores Sur’s historical expertise in navigation and marine sciences, reinforcing its legacy as a centre for seafaring knowledge.
Beyond stamps, the National Museum has launched the Friends of Oman Museums membership program, an initiative that extends benefits such as free museum entry, participation in cultural events, training in museum craftsmanship, and involvement in upcoming exhibitions.
Dr Fatma al Balushi shared, “We hope this program encourages Oman’s residents and visitors alike to deepen their engagement with our nation’s cultural heritage, forging connections that honour our past and inspire our future.”
Al Saadi, the passionate collector behind the exhibit, reflected, “These stamps are miniature messengers, each one encapsulating a piece of our heritage and the pivotal moments in Sur’s history. They hold stories that, I hope, will continue to inform and inspire generations about the legacy they inherit.”
With this exhibition, the National Museum and the city of Sur celebrate not only historical milestones but also the ongoing importance of preserving cultural memory. As Sur is honoured as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, this collection of postage stamps stands as a testament to the city’s enduring legacy and the National Museum’s dedication to safeguarding Omani history for generations to come.
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