This exhibition, through 150 exhibits from Central Asia, the Middle East and Indonesia, presents the wide variety of male and female social roles in the Islamic world. It recalls the cultural diversity of this vast area and some of its somewhat less familiar aspects. It may also prompt reflection on the traditional division of gender roles in different cultures.

The first part of the exhibition depicts the world of men. Here, visitors will have a chance to see a range of country-specific artefacts, such as traditional costumes and objects related to leisure activities, and professions that are generally considered to be “male occupations”.

The second part of the exhibition shows the life of women, which occurs more in the private sphere.

This part of the exhibition also features traditional clothing that in various ways refers to the Islamic rules of modesty. Presented here are also implements used by craftswomen, as well as objects related to housekeeping, motherhood and beauty care.