Lovers of art have a treat on their hands! A first-ever in Brunei, the ‘Faith and Devotion’ exhibition brings a touch of the international art scene to the nation. Featuring 19th Century Orientalist art from prominent artists such as master painter and sculptor Jean-Léon Gérôme, Rudolf Ernst from Austria and Italian Hermann Corrodi, ‘Faith and Devotion’ paints a historical tapestry of figurative art celebrating the islamic world. Claude Piening, Senior Director Head of 19th Century European Paintings at Sotheby’s, noted in his opening remarks that this inaugural exhibition was hoped to be “enlightening and educational” for both the local community and foreign visitors alike.
The theme ‘Faith and Devotion’ explores depictions of the many parts of the Muslim world termed as ‘the Orient’ in the 19th Century and shed an important light on Islamic culture and religion at a time when artists from Europe, America and Ottoman empire (later Turkiye) were inspired by the culture and religious practices of the region bordering the Mediterranean and further east. His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen was in attendance to officiate the opening of ‘Faith and Devotion’, accompanied by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Anisha Rosnah binti Adam. Curated by world-renowned art broker Sotheby’s, the art exhibition is open for viewing at the Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and will run until January 2025 according to the current schedule.
