Al-Mizan

‘Al-Mizan’ is the Arabic word for balance - both the familiar measuring instrument and the metaphorical pursuit of justice and harmony in all human endeavours.

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For hundreds of years after the advent of Islam, Arabic was the language in which mathematics and science were most actively studied. The intellectual achievements of scholars in the Islamic world were matched by the emergence of a highly distinctive visual and artistic culture.

This exhibition explores the connections between the sciences and arts in Muslim societies. It presents highlights from the Museum’s collection of Islamic scientific instruments alongside medieval manuscripts, metalwork and ceramics on loan from other major collections. The links between scientific inquiry and artistic beauty are vividly revealed through the decorative and practical work of the craftsman.

The exhibition has been staged by the Museum of the History of Science in collaboration with the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies. It celebrates the Centre's 25th anniversary and runs from 26 October 2010 to 20 March 2011.