Presidential Presents: State Gifts from 1962 to 2009
If you ever found buying a gift for a friend a daunting task, imagine the process that goes into selecting a gift for exchange between heads of state.
Gold Plated Clasp Handbag Set (2005), from His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco to President S R Nathan
For the first time, a collection of 50 selected official gifts received by the six Presidents of Singapore will be on display at the National Museum of Singapore. Titled Presidential Presents, these gifts received from 1962 to 2009 will be exhibited at the Museum from 22 September 2010 to 9 January 2011.
Silver Punch Bowl with Black Stand (1962), from His Royal Highness Prince Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia to late Encik Yusof Bin Ishak
Presidential Presents offers a glimpse into the long-established tradition of official gift giving by Heads of States, their emissaries and representatives to Singapore’s Presidents. Presented during overseas State visits by our Presidents or by dignitaries visiting Singapore, these gifts symbolise the high esteem and regard accorded to our Heads of State. In addition the enduring diplomatic and commercial relations between these countries and Singapore are recognised through these gifts.
Silver Tea Set (1973), from the late Tun Abdul Razak Bin Hussein Al-Haj of Malaysia to late Dr Benjamin Henry Sheares
Says Ms Lee Chor Lin, Director of National Museum of Singapore, “We hope that Presidential Presents will offer visitors the opportunity to understand the subtle art of diplomacy. This special presentation underscores the good relations Singapore has with other countries and the National Museum of Singapore is proud to host this exhibition.”
Kris (2009), from Mr Begug Poernomo of Republic of Indonesia to President S R Nathan
In addition to playing an important role in establishing and enhancing good relations, the State Gifts received are also symbolic of the cultural and social heritage of the country presenting them. In many instances, the political realities of the day as well as personal taste of the presenter are reflected. In an inimitable way, Presidential Presents is both a record of Singapore’s valued relationship with the world and a reflection of international culture over the years.
Porcelain Bowl (2009), from President Hu Jintao of the People's Republic of China to President S R Nathan
The 50 gifts that make up the exhibition are being displayed for the first time outside of the Istana. Visitors can expect to see decorative vases, ceremonial daggers, vividly painted bowls, exquisitely crafted gold and silverware in both traditional and contemporary styles. Each item on display is accompanied by a detailed synopsis in all four official languages.
Presidential Presents: State Gifts from 1962 to 2009 – In a Nutshell:
Venue: National Museum of Singapore, The Balcony, Level 2
Date: Till 9 Jan, 2011, Sunday
Time: Open daily from 10am – 8pm
Admission: Free
Check out other events happening at the National Museum of Singapore here. Catch them all while you’re there!
Would be interesting to know from whom each of the above gifts came. Any way of knowing (besides going for the exhibition, heehee!)?
Done, Shahirah! :) Hope this helps!
Wow thanks! Was already interesting to begin with, now it’s even more so!