The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) unveiled the second Abu Dhabi Masterpieces Collection: Exhibition-Dossiers, showcasing historically significant masterpieces which further highlights Abu Dhabi’s position as a world-leading cultural centre.
The latest exhibition in the series brings together important works that capture key moments in the history of art, offering rare public access to masterpieces that encourage a deeper understanding of art.
Aiming to preserve and present prominent works, the Abu Dhabi Collection invites art lovers and scholars alike to immerse themselves in the exhibition and contribute to the national and international art discourse.
Among the highlights is the 18th-century pair by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin. While commissioned together, the two paintings – Still Life with Musical Instruments, Basket of Fruit and Guitar and Musical Instruments and Parrot – were separated into different collections in 2014 and have now been reunited for the first time since.
The pieces exemplify Chardin’s mastery of light, texture, and composition while inviting the appreciation of music, nature, and the beauty of everyday life.
Offering a compelling contrast is Jean-Michel Basquiat’s vibrant work, El Gran Espectaculo (The Nile). The triptych, a three-panel painting created at the height of the artist’s career in 1983, explores complex historical themes through Basquiat’s distinctive style.
The launch of the second exhibition reaffirms DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to protecting cultural legacies and building a world-class collection for future generations.
Guided tours will also be offered to engage audiences and amplify the stories behind each piece, fostering lasting connections with these works of art.
