The Musée du Louvre is loaning 26 significant Islamic art treasures to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art in Washington, DC. The exhibition, titled From the Louvre: Masterpieces of Islamic Art, runs from September 26 to January 18, 2027. This collection features works ranging from the 7th to the 19th centuries, including items that have never been displayed in the United States before.
Among the highlights is the Lion of Monzón, a 10th-century bronze statue from Islamic Spain, and a large Ottoman ceramic bowl. The items travel across the Atlantic as part of a collaboration between the two institutions. The National Museum of Asian Art serves as the exclusive host for this exhibition, making it a singular opportunity for public viewing in the country.
Curators are framing the exhibition around the Islamic concept of tuhfa, which refers to objects of rare craftsmanship and prestige. Many of these pieces served as diplomatic gifts throughout history, moving between rulers and elites before eventually entering the Louvre’s permanent collection. The exhibit examines these journeys, including objects that moved from the Middle East to Europe centuries ago, such as a Mamluk brass basin later used for French royal baptisms.
This partnership aligns with the celebration of America's 250th anniversary. Museum director Chase F. Robinson noted that the themes of diplomatic exchange and historical movement reflect the broader narrative of the anniversary. By showcasing these artifacts, the museums highlight the long-standing connections between French and American cultural institutions and the global history of these masterworks.