A Falcon’s Eye

A tribute to HE Sheikh Saoud bin Mohamed bin Ali Al Thani, who was so influential in the constitution of collections for Qatar Museums and the state of Qatar.

Following the 10-year anniversary celebrations of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), A Falcon’s Eye is a timely exhibition that honours the work and legacy of HE Sheikh Saoud bin Mohamed bin Ali Al Thani. A Falcon’s Eye is named for Saoud’s discerning eye, but this catalogue also sheds light on his character, and his exquisite and eclectic taste. As an art connoisseur and collector, he was always on the move, identifying and purchasing the rarest treasures of the highest quality. Many of these objects are displayed in the galleries of MIA’s permanent collection. Saoud was a collector who knew how to spot—and then seize—rare opportunities that would never come again.

The book introduces Sheikh Saoud as the passionate visionary who laid the foundation of the collections at Qatar Museums; it unveils his far-reaching interests which include the natural sciences, antiquities, gems and jewels, paintings, decorative arts and photography. All objects are masterworks and a tribute to the exquisite taste and great knowledge of one of the most distinguished art connoisseurs of the modern world.