Dar El-Nimer for Arts and Culture invites you to the exhibition ‘On Earth as it is in Heaven’, showcasing a collection of Levantine and Jerusalemite icons, paintings, and souvenirs.

The icons on display highlight the vibrant artistic movement that flourished in Jerusalem. Many of the fathers and grandfathers of Palestinian artists were involved in icon-making, as well as in church architecture, restoration, and decoration.

These artworks date back to a time when the Holy Land was not only a spiritual center attracting believers from three monotheistic religions but also a unique artistic hub. Here, a distinct school of icon-making developed, encompassing various forms and styles, some of which are featured in this exhibition.

Numerous Jerusalemite iconographers and artisans gained recognition, establishing workshops that distributed the output of the Jerusalem School to churches throughout the Arab Levant. Pilgrims from across the globe also took home iconic souvenirs.

The icons from the Jerusalem School possess a unique style that sets them apart from classical traditions, such as Byzantine, Greek, and Aleppine styles. During the peak of this artistic movement, Jerusalem saw a surge in religious tourism, giving rise to a variety of religious artworks with a commemorative aspect, including maps of the Holy Land and icons crafted on fish bones and shells from the Jordan River.

The commemorative maps of Jerusalem (Proskynetarion), extensively researched, documented, and interpreted by Dr. Mahmoud Zibawi, stand out as some of the most remarkable creations of the Jerusalem School. Rich in aesthetic detail, these maps illustrate numerous landmarks within the Holy City and its surrounding regions. Many of them also feature biblical scenes and depictions of saints.

This exhibition serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the arts, particularly Eastern Christian icons. It aims to encourage a lively dialogue that starts with the artwork and delves into its historical, political, and social contexts.

The exhibition will run until 17 January 2026.