HIS3360 Blog #3 Part One:

Jerusalem Exhibit

My exploration of the Jerusalem exhibit was very interesting to say the least. As I walked through I examined many different remnants tracing back to religion, trade and war. Without question my favorite piece was the Chasse of Ambazae. This was a breathtaking chest constructed of gold decorated with dazzling precious stones with traces back to the eastern Mediterranean area. With traces to warfare it was interesting to see a Christian sword compared directly next to an Islamic sword. We know how both of these religions intermingled in good ways and bad shaping Eastern Europe’s history.

Art of the Arab Lands Exhibit

During my walk through of the Art of the Arab Lands exhibit and accompanying sections I couldn’t help but feel there was a massive amount of textiles, whether it be carpets, drapes or the like. There was a large room that displayed an enormous carpet on the floor. These textiles with beautiful designs highlight the merchant emphasis placed on these regions as it is likely these regions traded textiles heavily. My favorite piece in the exhibit included an invention that the tour guide explained “… Is exactly what you use on the Fourth of July.” The eastern Europeans had barbeques. Also, these devices were used to keep warm in the colder conditions faced.