The Khalili Foundation

Professor Sir Nasser David Khalili has published his autobiography, The Art of Peace, offering a deeply personal account of his remarkable journey. From leaving Iran in 1954 with just $750 to building eight world-class art collections, Sir David’s story reflects vision, determination, and a lifelong commitment to peace. The book shares vivid experiences from his travels through the souks of North Africa, the auction houses of Europe and America, and the bazaars of South Asia. It also explores his approach to collecting, his business ethics, and his guiding belief in art as a powerful instrument of peace and cultural understanding. The Art of Peace has received widespread recognition, including being selected as Pick of the Week by the Bradford Literature Festival. Sir David has also delivered keynote lectures inspired by the book at leading institutions such as the University of Cambridge’s Faculty of Divinity and Oxford University’s Kellogg College, where he spoke alongside former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, as well as at prestigious venues across the United States and Europe. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more: f.mtr.cool/lddggmzgfa #khalilicollections#khalilipublications #books

What is a Dreidel? The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top used in a traditional game of chance. Its Hebrew letters stand for “Nes Gadol Haya Sham” - “a great miracle happened there” and also give the game’s instructions. It can symbolize four ancient kingdoms around the Jewish people. Make your own and learn how to play with Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com

This volume presents the first publication of a remarkable group of 30 leather documents written in Official Aramaic, dating to the 4th century BC and illuminating the administrative practices of the Achaemenid Empire in Bactria and Sogdiana. Also included are 18 inscribed wooden tally sticks from the third year of King Darius III, together forming what is considered the second most important discovery of its kind. Among the highlights are two leather texts relating to the سقوط of the Persian Empire - one referencing Bessus, the usurper king, en route to Warnu (Greek Aornos), and another detailing supplies in the seventh year of Alexander. Beyond their historical significance, these documents deepen our understanding of the Aramaic language and its lexicon. Presented with translations, introduction, commentary, and glossary, the volume is richly illustrated throughout. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more: tinyurl.com/yj6d6vkv  #khalilicollections#khalilipublications #books

What is The Circle of Peace? The Circle of Peace is a painting designed by Sir David Khalili, featuring the word “peace” in English, Hebrew, and Arabic arranged in circles around a central point. One of five works by artist Ben Johnson commissioned for the House of Peace, it reflects a vision of interfaith and intercultural harmony. Learn more with Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com

Splendors of Imperial Japan: Arts of the Meiji Period showcased over 350 masterpieces from Japan’s Meiji Period (1868–1912), highlighting unparalleled craftsmanship in metal, lacquer, enamel, ceramics, porcelain, and textiles from the Khalili Collection. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more: tinyurl.com/4fr3d8sd #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

What is the Ark of the Covenant and why is it important? The Ark of the Covenant, or Aron HaB’rit, was a sacred container for the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments. Some traditions also say it held Aaron’s staff, a bowl of manna, or the first Torah scroll. Built by the Israelites by God’s command, it symbolized God’s presence. The Ark was carried in the desert and later kept in the Holy of Holies in the First Temple, where only the High Priest could see it on Yom Kippur. Its fate after the Temple’s destruction is unknown. This resource is shared as part of Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com The world’s leading digital resource for interfaith and intercultural education.

The Khalili Falnamah presents the only illustrated manuscript devoted to divination, produced in early 17th-century Golconda under the Qutb Shahi dynasty. It includes 37 unique illustrations, a facsimile, and a full translation. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more: tinyurl.com/3awxerzh #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

What is a god and how is God understood in different religions? A god is usually understood as a powerful being who creates or controls events, nature, and life. Many religions include belief in one or more gods. Monotheistic religions teach belief in a single creator God. In Islam, God is called Allah and is described through many names that express divine perfection. In Judaism, God’s names are considered sacred, and special rules guide how they are spoken and written. This resource is shared as part of Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com The world’s leading digital resource for interfaith and intercultural education.

After Timur: Qur’ans of the 15th and 16th Centuries is the third of four volumes cataloguing the Qur’anic manuscripts in the Collection, presenting 60 works from 1400–1600 across Iran, Central Asia, Syria, Egypt, Turkey and India. Highlights include a Mughal court Qur’an, possibly made for Shah Tahmasp, alongside new studies on Baysunghur, Ruzbihan Muhammad and Ahmed Karahisari. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more:tinyurl.com/yurevbkf #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

This week we sat down with Michael Burns to ask him some questions about our forthcoming publication The Pilgrims’ Companion: The Khalili Anīs al-Hujjāj, coming out this May. The Pilgrims’ Companion publishes 11th May 2026 and is available to pre-order via accartbooks.com/uk/book/the-pi… #NewRelease

What is a creation story and why is it important? A creation story explains how the universe began, how the world was formed, and why humans exist. Many cultures have creation stories, often describing the world as being made by a god, spirit, or supreme being. In Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, God creates the universe in six days and rests on the seventh. These stories help believers understand God, humanity, and the purpose of life. This resource is shared as part of Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com The world’s leading digital resource for interfaith and intercultural education. #khalilifoundation

Islamic Rings and Seals presents over 600 rings from across the Islamic world and beyond, spanning from Hellenistic glass rings of the 2nd–1st century BC to a signet ring made in India in 1920. Highlights include exquisite Fatimid gold filigree rings, signet rings bearing personal names, and rare examples such as a ring made for Zubaydah in 11th-century Egypt. The collection also features rings with protective religious inscriptions, carved semiprecious stones, archer’s thumb rings, and Anatolian thimbles. Detailed analysis of materials, techniques, and inscriptions, supported by colour illustrations and drawings, provides a comprehensive typology and deep insight into the history and symbolism of Islamic rings. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. #khalilicollections Learn more: tinyurl.com/yytexfhh  #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

For International Day of Zero Waste 2026, we celebrate sustainable living and the power of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Minimizing waste protects our planet, conserves resources, and builds resilient communities. As we strive for a circular future, conscious choices and collective action must lead the way. Learn more: khalili.foundation #khalilifoundation

Who is Mary (Maryam) and why is she important in different religions? Mary, known as Maryam in Islam, is the mother of Jesus (Isa). In the Christian Bible, the angel Gabriel tells Mary that she will give birth to a son who will redeem humanity. In the Qur’an, Maryam is described as the chosen among women and is honoured for her faith and devotion. Christians and Muslims do not worship Mary, though some Catholics and Orthodox Christians pray to her. She is especially important to many Christian women. This resource is shared as part of Interfaith Explorers: interfaithexplorers.com The world’s leading digital resource for interfaith and intercultural education. #khalilifoundation

Arms and Armour in the Khalili Collection spans the 7th to 19th centuries, featuring exceptional examples that reflect both the ceremonial and practical aspects of warfare in the Islamic world. Highlights include medieval belt fittings, elaborate horse trappings from the 13th and 14th centuries one with a complete gold saddle and a dramatic 15th-century war mask. The collection also includes rare horse chamfrons, notably the only known example from Sultanate India, alongside detailed studies of inscriptions, drawings, and arsenal marks. Moving beyond rigid typologies, the volume explores the full panoply of warfare, from banners and drums to talismanic shirts, offering vivid insight into martial culture and display. All proceeds generated from The Khalili Collections book purchases benefit the charitable endeavours of the Khalili Foundation directly. Learn more: tinyurl.com/bdxuepyj #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

For World Water Day 2026, we recognise water as a fundamental resource for life, health, and sustainability. Protecting freshwater systems and ensuring equitable access to clean water are essential to resilient communities and a thriving planet. As global water challenges grow, collective action must flow forward. Learn more: khalili.foundation #khalilifoundation

Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage presents an extraordinary survey of one of the most significant collections of Islamic art assembled by Nasser David Khalili. Spanning over five decades of dedicated collecting, the Khalili Collections comprise more than 35,000 objects, each offering a comprehensive insight into its respective field. This particular collection brings together over five thousand works related to the pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, ranging from the eighth century to the present day, and includes Qur’ans, illustrated manuscripts, rare books, textiles, scientific instruments, coins, paintings, prints, photographs, and archival materials. The volume features twenty-seven scholarly essays that explore the artistic, spiritual, and cultural dimensions of Hajj, highlighting both its deep religious significance and its role as a global, cosmopolitan experience. Among the highlights are rare and previously unpublished works, including early photographic documentation of the pilgrimage and unique historical artefacts that illuminate the evolution of Hajj across centuries. Through detailed research and rich full-colour illustrations, Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage offers an essential and immersive account of the traditions, visual culture, and enduring legacy of one of Islam’s most important rites. All proceeds from Khalili Collections book purchases directly support the charitable work of the Khalili Foundation. Learn more: tinyurl.com/4ya46n5z #khalilicollections #khalilipublications #books

Happy Eid! ✨🌙 Eid marks a beautiful moment of celebration, and togetherness. After a time of reflection and devotion, it’s a day to share joy, and blessings with family, friends, and community. Wishing you peace, and countless blessings on this special day. Eid Mubarak!  #eidmubarak

🌸✨ Happy Nowruz! ✨🌸 As the new year begins with the first breath of spring, Nowruz reminds us to embrace fresh starts, cherish connection, and welcome brighter days ahead. Rooted in centuries of tradition, this beautiful celebration brings light, renewal, and joy to hearts around the world. May your year be filled with happiness, growth, and endless new beginnings. Eid-eh Shoma Mobarak! ✨ #nowruz

#EidMubarak Today we’re sharing a folio from Firdawsi’s Shahnameh, created in the 1520s in Tabriz for Shah Tahmasp. Often described as the finest illustrated Persian manuscript ever produced, this work reflects the artistic ambition of the early Safavid court. The scene shows Faridun’s mother, Faranak, sending gifts to her son.