The permanent collection of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) includes a remarkable piece known as a sitara. It is a part of the kiswat al-Ka’ba, the fabric that once adorned the Ka’ba, Islam’s holiest monument in Mecca. This particular sitara dates back to the mid-19th century during the late Ottoman period and was likely replaced during the yearly ceremony in which a new kiswa is draped over the Ka’ba. This event typically coincides with the celebration of Eid al-Adha.
A kiswa comprises five embroidered fabric sections sewn together, each covering a side of the square-shaped Ka’ba. The fifth piece, which is the most elaborate, is the sitara. Designed as a curtain, it covers the doors of the monument. Beyond its deep spiritual meaning, every kiswat al-Ka’ba is also a masterpiece of artistry, featuring intricate embroidery and design that embody the rich cultural heritage of its origin and serve as a symbol of a connection to the broader Islamic world.
Historical records indicate that since the Ayyubid period (6th century AH/12th century CE), kiswas were annually crafted in Cairo and sent as a precious gift in a mahmal (palanquin) at the head of pilgrim caravans bound for Mecca. In 1233 AH/1817 CE, the Ottoman governor Muhammad Ali Pasha founded the Dar al-Kiswa, an artistic workshop that produced these sacred textiles for the Islamic holy sites in Mecca and Medina until 1927. After that, production was relocated to Mecca.
These days, the Bayt al-Kiswa al-Sharifa is the official institution responsible for creating the Ka‘ba’s cover each year, utilising pure gold threads to stitch together sections of black cloth. Ottoman textiles, such as the one displayed at MIA, were crafted with gilded metal threads. The kiswa is still meticulously embroidered by hand. Apart from the changing inscription of the date on the sitara, modern versions look nearly identical year after year. This consistency is unique to our era, as during the Ottoman period, each kiswa, especially the sitara section, featured distinct and varied designs.
One can find the Sitara of the Ka‘ba in MIA’s gallery dedicated to Religious Life, which delves into artistic traditions connected with religious practices in the Islamic world. If you would like to get more information about the exhibit, please go to its official web page.
While at the Museum of Islamic Art, you may also be interested in looking at the Damascus Room. Besides, we recommend that you visit Miraj Islamic Art Centre.
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