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Hyderabad's Treasure Trove: A Collector's Dream
21 Oct
Summary
- Museum houses over 46,000 art objects from global travels.
- The 'Veiled Rebecca' sculpture is carved from a single marble block.
- A 19th-century musical clock offers a unique hourly spectacle.
Salar Jung III's extensive global art collection forms the heart of Hyderabad's Salar Jung Museum. Established in 1951 around his lifelong acquisitions, the museum was declared an 'Institution of National Importance' by the Indian government in 1961. It now boasts over 46,000 art objects, 8,000 manuscripts, and 60,000 books.
Among its prized possessions is the 'Veiled Rebecca,' an exquisite 1863 marble sculpture by Giovanni Maria Benzoni that creates a striking illusion of draped fabric. Another highlight is a 19th-century musical clock, a mechanical marvel that performs a miniature show every hour, captivating visitors with its intricate craftsmanship.
Located on the Musi River bank, the museum is a significant cultural landmark. Originally housed in Dewan Deodi, it moved to its present building in 1968. The museum remains a significant draw for tourists and art enthusiasts seeking to explore a vast collection assembled over generations.
