Pearling in the Gulf1681/1092H
"The desire for pearls is a thing which is found in all nations." Abu Rian Al-Biruni, Persian Scholar Some of the best natural pearls in the world came from the oysters living in the warm, shallow waters of the Gulf. Pearls came to represent wealth and power from the shores of India to the Mediterranean and beyond. The oldest known Gulf Pearl was found in Kuwait by archaeologists is 7000 years old. Above: Drawing of the oyster shell Pinctada margaratifera from a treatis published by F. Bonnani in Rome.
Pearl Divers1637/1046H
During certain times of the season divers also wore cotton suites (libis) to protect them from jelly fish stings. Attacks from sharks and sawfish also happened from time to time. The life of a diver was often short and harsh.
Life on Board1637/1046H
The crew opening the oyster shells the following day.
Pearling Dhows1924/1342H
Dhows in Harbors at the start of the pearling season.
The Floating Academy of Music(1926-1957/1344-1376H)
Music on board particularly important, as their only entertainment was a diverse display of chants, songs, drumming and clapping that kept up their spirits and strengths.‘Everything on board the dhow was done to the accompaniment of singing, stamping, and hand-clapping.’
Pearl Merchants1926/1344H
The pearl merchant’s launch was the antithesis of the diving dhow. It was carpeted with Persian rugs and provided with cushions’.
The End of an Era1949/1368H
The last pearling fleet of any size put into Dubai.