Day 92: Islamic Art Museum

Again, I am always touched by how art bring people together, and the art community of Israel is no exception. The L.A. Mayer Memorial Institute for Islamic Art was founded by Vera Bryce Salomons, in honor of her friend and teacher, Leo Arie Mayer.  A professor of Islamic Art & Architecture at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Mayer was dedicated to building bridges between Jews and Arabs.

The museum has an extensive collection of Islamic art dating from the 7th century to the present.  Exhibits items include: Arabic calligraphy, chess pieces, dominos, antique playing cards, daggers, swords, helmets, jewelry, glass, pottery, metal-ware, textiles, and carpets.  The core of the museum's collection is from Professor Mayer's own personal collection and  additional acquisitions made by Mrs. Salomons.

In addition to the main collection, there is also a gallery dedicated to the "Art of Time".  The gallery contains a collection of watches and clocks that belonged to Sir David Lionel Salomons (Vera's father).  Most of the time pieces are from Paris, France, dating back to the 18th-19th centuries.  These look really cool.

The museum offers guided tours, which are available in three languages: English, Arabic, and Hebrew.  In addition, they host workshops from time to time on various art topics.  This museum has become a popular fieldtrip for both Arabic and Jewish schoolchildren.

L. A. Mayer Museum for Islamic Art

2, Hapalmach Street

Jerusalem, Israel