The Government of Pakistan has presented a unique piece of Islamic art to the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS), marking the first time a Pakistani artwork has become part of the Centre’s permanent collection.
The presentation ceremony was attended by Lord Wajid Khan, the High Commissioner’s spouse Dr. Sarah Naeem, members of the OCIS administration, scholars, and officials from the Pakistan High Commission.
The artwork was created by renowned Pakistani artist Amin Gulgee and is part of his celebrated Zero Gravity 2 series. It features Verse 5 of Surah Al-Alaq, one of the earliest revelations to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“He taught man that which he knew not.”
The verse is rendered in elegant Naskh calligraphy, designed in seven interconnected segments that appear to float weightlessly in the air an artistic signature of Gulgee’s style.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, said it was an honour to present this masterpiece on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan.
He stated that Pakistan’s representation at such a prestigious institution is a source of national pride. “This gift is not just symbolic it marks the beginning of a deeper, long-lasting relationship between Pakistan and the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies. We hope this artwork serves as a bridge, opening new pathways for research, academic collaboration, and cultural dialogue.”
Dr. Faisal also expressed gratitude to OCIS Director Dr. Farhan Ahmad Nizami and the Centre’s administration for accepting the gift. He praised Amin Gulgee for creatively presenting the Divine words with exceptional artistic expression.
He added that the artwork will serve as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge is a sacred journey one that began with the Divine command “Iqra – Read!” and continues through the growing academic cooperation between institutions like OCIS and Pakistan.
The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies is internationally recognised as a leading institution dedicated to the study of Islamic culture, civilisation, and Muslim societies.
