Silver the Traditional Art of Oman

A people’s craft carries the visual clues to a people’s character. and of all its crafts, Oman’s silversmithing tells us of the qualities of those people responsible for it — their taste, their artistry, their skills of workmanship, standards of finish, passion for design in all their artifacts.

Silver is the most natural medium for a nation of ocean-going merchants. What Omanis have for centuries fabricated with their silver tells half their social history — of marriage rites, martial styles, cosmetics and titivation, and of course, personal adornment.

It is no wonder that for the collector of artifacts Omani silver is so prized. And no surprise, also, that - in an age of global mass-manufacture — the silversmiths’ craft in Oman is so venerated and sustained with such vigour.

Ruth Hawley has known and loved the country for over a quarter of a century, and no greater expert exists in the range, style, and technique of Omani silver. Silver: the Traditional Art of Oman is not only invaluable to the collector, but an informing commentary for all those who have learnt to know and delight in Oman.