The Government of Pakistan has presented a major contemporary Islamic artwork to the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS), marking the first time Pakistan is represented in the Centre’s prestigious permanent collection.
In an elegant ceremony held at OCIS, the artwork was formally handed over by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, accompanied by his spouse Dr. Sarah Naeem. The event was attended by Lord Wajid Khan, distinguished academics, scholars, OCIS faculty, officers of the Pakistan High Commission, and friends of Pakistan.
The gifted sculpture—crafted by acclaimed Pakistani artist Amin Gulgee—is part of his renowned Zero Gravity II series. The piece features the fifth verse of Surah Al-Alaq, one of the earliest revelations to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him):
عَلَّمَ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنَ مَا لَمۡ يَعۡلَمۡ
“[He] taught humankind what they knew not” (Quran 96:5)
The verse is rendered in refined Naskh calligraphy and creatively deconstructed into seven interconnected, floating components, giving the impression of defying gravity.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Faisal said it was a “great honour and personal pleasure” to represent the Government and people of Pakistan on this historic occasion.
“To have Pakistan’s artistic voice now resonate within these walls is a matter of immense national pride. This gift is not a one-time event, but the beginning of a lasting relationship between Pakistan and the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies,” he stated.
Dr. Faisal expressed confidence that the artwork would serve as a cultural and intellectual bridge, fostering greater collaboration in research, scholarship, academic exchange, and dialogue for years to come. He offered heartfelt thanks to OCIS Director Dr. Farhan Ahmad Nizami and the Centre’s leadership for accepting the gift, and to Amin Gulgee for creating a piece that “so beautifully embodies the Pakistani spirit of creativity rooted in faith.”
He concluded with the hope that the sculpture would inspire visitors to reflect on the sacred journey of seeking knowledge—one that began with the divine command “Iqra” (Read) and continues through institutions such as OCIS and through the growing partnership between Pakistan and the Centre.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Farhan Nizami thanked the people and Government of Pakistan for the meaningful contribution and expressed optimism that collaborations with Pakistan would continue to strengthen.
The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies remains globally recognized as a leading institution dedicated to the multidisciplinary study of Islamic culture, civilization, and contemporary Muslim societies.