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Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design

The Vision of Doris Duke

Doris Duke, an influential philanthropist and art collector, envisioned the Shangri La Museum as a sanctuary where art transcends cultural boundaries and fosters mutual understanding. Her passion for Islamic art began during her honeymoon in 1935 when she traveled to the Middle East and South Asia, where she was captivated by the region's art and architecture. Upon her return to Hawaii, she was inspired to create a space that celebrates the diversity and richness of Islamic artistic traditions. Duke’s vision was to establish a home that would be a living museum, immersing visitors in the cultural and aesthetic beauty of Islamic art.

Duke worked closely with prominent architects and designers to incorporate Islamic art and influences into the design of her Honolulu home, Shangri La. Over the years, this vision evolved into a comprehensive repository for Islamic art, showcasing artifacts spanning from Spain to Southeast Asia. In creating Shangri La, Duke sought not only to preserve these works but also to educate and inspire others by integrating these vibrant cultural works within the daily life of her spectacular Hawaiian retreat.

Architectural Highlights and Gardens

Shangri La's architecture reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic elements and the natural beauty of its Hawaiian setting. The estate is an architectural wonder where Moorish, Mughal, and Persian styles coalesce with modernist simplicity. The meticulous detailing of architectural elements, such as the courtyards, archways, and intricate tile work, echoes the diversity of Islamic art traditions.

One of the key architectural features is the Mihrab Room, inspired by 18th-century Iranian architecture. It includes a rich array of ceramics, textiles, and decorative elements that create an immersive cultural experience. Another significant space is the Syrian Room, adorned with painted wooden panels that narrate stories of cultural symbolism and artistic heritage.

The lush gardens of Shangri La offer a serene complement to its architectural drama. Designed to evoke the sense of a classical Persian garden, they are filled with vibrant indigenous Hawaiian flora that create a stunning landscape backdrop. The water features, including reflecting pools and fountains, integrate the soothing element of water, a key aspect in Islamic garden design, enhancing the ambiance of tranquility and contemplation.

Key Islamic Art Collections

Shangri La boasts an unparalleled collection of Islamic art, reflecting diverse regions and periods. This collection is a testament to Doris Duke's discerning eye and commitment to preserving Islamic cultural heritage. Notable pieces include:

  • Ceramics and Tiles: The museum houses an exquisite array of tiles and pottery from prominent art centers such as Iznik, Damascus, and Kashan. These pieces exhibit intricate designs, vivid colors, and sophisticated techniques that exemplify Islamic artistry and craftsmanship.

  • Textiles: Among the highlighted collections are textiles from Central Asia, India, and the Middle East, including rare silk embroideries, brocades, and carpets. These textiles showcase a variety of techniques such as weaving, printmaking, and dyeing, each telling a story of cultural exchange and tradition.

  • Furniture and Woodwork: The collection includes an impressive array of woodwork pieces, from intricately carved doors to delicate latticework screens, demonstrating the woodworking prowess present throughout Muslim cultures.

  • Metalwork: From intricately designed jewelry to ornate metal vessels, these objects highlight the sophistication of Islamic metalworkers. These include jewelry inlaid with precious stones and intricate calligraphy-adorned vessels that speak to the grandeur and intricacy of Islamic metal art.

Through its diverse collections, Shangri La serves as a pivotal center for the appreciation and understanding of Islamic art and culture. The museum not only celebrates the visual beauty of these art forms but also pays homage to the cultural narratives and histories they represent. The legacy of Doris Duke and her museum continues to promote appreciation for the global and timeless nature of Islamic art.