A Royal Unveiling: Africa Legacy Shines at Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is currently hosting a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power,” offering visitors an immersive journey through a millennium of African royal history and artistry. Running until June 8, 2025, this exhibition marks the first of its kind in the UAE and the Gulf region, dedicated entirely to the rich tapestry of African art and culture .

Exhibition Overview

Curated in collaboration with the Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac and France Muséums, the exhibition showcases over 350 exceptional artworks spanning from the 11th to the 21st centuries. These pieces, sourced from various African institutions and private collections, include regal portraiture, ceremonial objects, textiles, and contemporary artworks that highlight the diverse expressions of power and identity across the African continent .

The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into three regional sections:

• West Africa: Featuring masterpieces from the Yoruba, Benin, Akan, and Danhomè cultures, including the crowned head of Queen Oluwo from Ife, Nigeria (14th/15th century) and gilded Baule royal shoes from Côte d’Ivoire.
• Central Africa: Highlighting ceremonial objects from the Kongo, Luba, and Teke kingdoms, such as Nkisi Nkondi figures that embody the fusion of spiritual and political authority.
• Southern and Eastern Africa: Showcasing artefacts from the Zulu and Ethiopian kingdoms, celebrating the region’s rich artistic traditions.

The exhibition concludes with an African Pop Art section, featuring contemporary comics and video games that reflect the enduring influence of African royal legacies on modern culture .

Curatorial Team and Collaborations

The exhibition is curated by a distinguished team of experts in African art:

• Hélène Joubert: General Curator and Head of the African Collections at the Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac.
• El Hadji Malick Ndiaye: Associate Curator, Head of the Museums Department, and Curator of the Musée Théodore Monod d’Art Africain, IFAN-Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar.
• Cindy Olohou: Associate Curator, Head of Collections at the Regional Collection of Contemporary Art, Île-de-France, and Independent Art Critic.

Their collaborative efforts, supported by the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s curatorial team, have resulted in an exhibition that not only celebrates African heritage but also fosters cross-cultural dialogue and understanding .

Venue Details and Visitor Information

Located on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an architectural marvel designed by Jean Nouvel. The museum spans approximately 24,000 square meters, with 8,000 square meters dedicated to galleries, making it the largest art museum in the Arabian Peninsula .

Exhibition Schedule:

• Dates: Aprıl 28 – June 8, 2025.
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM.

Tickets: Available for purchase on the official Louvre Abu Dhabi website.

Transportation:

• From Dubai: Visitors can reach the museum via E11 highway, with an approximate travel time of 1.5 hours by car.
• Public Transport: Bus services are available between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with local taxis and ride-hailing services providing access to Saadiyat Island.

Weather Considerations:

According to information compiled by FEW.ae editor, visitors in early June can expect warm temperatures averaging around 38°C (100°F). It is advisable to wear light clothing and stay hydrated during your visit.

Additional Programming

Complementing the exhibition, the Louvre Abu Dhabi hosted a symposium titled “African Museums Today & Tomorrow” from January 28 to 30, 2025. This event brought together leading voices from African museums to discuss the future of museum practices and the preservation of African heritage .

Notably, the exhibition features works by renowned contemporary African artists such as El Anatsui and Abdoulaye Konaté, bridging the historical narratives with modern artistic expressions .

Cultural Significance

“Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power” stands as a testament to the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s commitment to showcasing diverse cultural narratives. By illuminating the rich histories and artistic achievements of African civilizations, the exhibition fosters a deeper appreciation for the continent’s contributions to global heritage.

Visitors are encouraged to seize this unique opportunity to explore the profound legacy of African royalty and its enduring influence on contemporary art and culture.