Kaaba Kiswa Displayed Outside: For the first time in history, the sacred covering of the Holy Kaaba, known as the Kiswa, is being exhibited outside Makkah. This historic event is taking place at the Islamic Arts Biennale held at King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the intricate craftsmanship of the Kiswa up close.
The Kiswa, which Muslims around the world face in prayer, holds immense religious and cultural significance. They traditionally replace it annually in a grand ceremony at the Grand Mosque in Makkah on the first day of the Islamic lunar Hijri year. The process of creating the Kiswa is both meticulous and labor-intensive, involving over 200 artisans and administrative staff at the King Abdulaziz Complex in Makkah.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition at the Islamic Arts Biennale showcases the detailed artistry involved in the creation of the Kiswa, from hand-weaving to embroidery with gold and silver threads. They use approximately 1,000kg of black-dyed silk, 120kg of gold threads, and 100kg of silver threads in their production. They have equipped the complex with specialized departments for dyeing, weaving, printing, and embroidery, including the world’s tallest computerized sewing machine.
Visitors to the biennale can gain insight into the rich heritage of Islamic arts and the centuries-old tradition of Kiswa-making. The exhibition takes them through the meticulous process of crafting the Kiswa, from selecting the finest silk to the final stages of preparation before it adorns the Holy Kaaba. They aim to highlight the advanced artistic techniques used over the centuries to maintain the spiritual and cultural significance of the Kiswa at the event, which runs until May 25.
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Kaaba Kiswa Displayed Outside: The biennale showcases the Kiswa and explores the historical evolution of Kiswa-making, offering a comprehensive look at how artisans have crafted and preserved this sacred cloth over time The interactive display provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the dedication and skill of the artisans involved in its creation.
This unprecedented exhibition of the Kiswa outside Makkah reflects the Saudi government’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage and providing greater access to religious artifacts. It offers a rare opportunity for people to connect with a pivotal element of Islamic tradition and history.
