In the shifting sands of Saudi Arabia outside the city of Thaj, archaeologists discovered the tomb of a young girl buried nearly 2,000 years ago, uncovering exquisite jewelry, a haunting gold mask and other objects—all made of gold. These funerary treasures are just a few of the surprising discoveries on display in the fascinating exhibition Roads of Arabia: Archaeology and History of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on view Oct. 24, 2014 through Jan. 18, 2015 at the Asian Art Museum.

The museum will offer West Coast audiences a first look at Roads of Arabia, a traveling exhibition originating from the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery in 2012, featuring recent archaeological discoveries that have radically transformed our understanding of Saudi Arabia. The exhibition showcases more than 200 objects, revealing the region’s role as a cultural crossroads through trade and pilgrimage over thousands of years. The Asian Art Museum is the final venue for the exhibition's U.S. tour.

Highlights of the exhibition include mysterious stone steles, monumental statues and finely forged bronze figures. A set of gilded doors that once graced the entrance to the Ka‘ba, Islam’s holiest sanctuary, is also featured.

“The Asian Art Museum is honored to showcase the first international exhibition of art and artifacts from Saudi Arabia during San Francisco’s Arab Heritage Month in October,” said Jay Xu, director of the Asian Art Museum. “Roads of Arabia will introduce and further deepen visitors’ knowledge of the rich cultural heritage and history of a region we are continuing to understand.”

The exhibition brings to light the Arabian Peninsula’s importance in early human history; the impact of the incense trade on ancient Arabia; the rise of Islam and the development of Islamic pilgrimage roads; and the formation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Roads of Arabia begins in Osher Gallery and continues in Hambrecht Gallery, Lee Gallery and the Resource Center, with artifacts activating North Court. The Asian Art Museum’s presentation of the exhibition is organized by assistant curator for exhibition projects Dany Chan. 

Information: 415.581.3500 or www.asianart.org