Qatar Museums (QM) in collaboration with the National Library of Poland yesterday launched a comprehensive study on the manuscript ‘Concerning the Horses of the Orient and Those Originating from Oriental Breeds’ by Count Waclaw Sewryn Rzewuski- a work that will help foster greater understanding of the Arab civilization and promotes the study of Arabian horses.

The launch was held at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center theater, and under the patronage of H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums.

“We at Qatar Museums, connect the museums, cultural institutions and heritage sites in Qatar and create the conditions for them to thrive. Importantly, however, we also work with peers around the world to collaborate on unique projects that help promote our rich culture and heritage,” Acting CEO of Qatar Museums, Ahmad Musa Al Namla said. He also said that: “It is such an honour to be here to witness the launch of a unique set of books, that includes a comprehensive study on the manuscript written by Count Waclaw Sewryn Rzewuski, Concerning the Horses of the Orient.”

The count was a Polish nobleman, poet, scientist and equine expert. Fascinated with the Orient, he traveled to the Middle East in the early 19th century where he wrote this valuable historical manuscript that is most famous for his depictions.

Pawel Lewandowski, Deputy Minister of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland said that: “It is a real honour to me and to Poland to participate in the presentation of such a unique and exceptional masterpiece. The work of Waclaw Rzewuski is a kind of bridge that connects European and Middle East cultures. The author himself is a unique personality. He was a romantic hero, a mysterious person with a very rich life story,” he noted. Concerning the Horses of the Orient and Those Originating from Oriental Breeds comprises four hard bound books and one soft cover booklet, published together as a box set.

This rare publication includes detailed descriptions of the best methods for the taming, care and breeding of Arabian horses as well as copious notes and illustrations of their anatomy, physiology, markings, pedigrees and breeds.

Source: The Peninsula Qatar