Art in the First Saudi State was a means for people to express their emotions, pains, needs, and aspirations throughout the history of the First Saudi State, which lasted ninety-four years, from 1727 to 1818.
Art varies according to the environment and region that embraces it, as each area in the Arabian Peninsula has its own unique characteristics suited to specific arts and musical instruments.
Art found its way to the Arabian Peninsula early on, as musical instruments were crafted from available materials in the environment, whether wood, strings, or animal skins. Poetry, for which Arabs were renowned, depicted the emotions and circumstances surrounding the poet.
Art in the western part of the Saudi State
Among the instruments known to the people in the western part of the Saudi State are the Simsimiyya, a stringed instrument originally with five strings that was later developed to include twenty strings, and the Mizmar, a wooden wind instrument. The people of the western part have their own dances and music, performed collectively, with audiences gathering to watch and participate in the performances.
Art in the northern part of the Saudi State
The Rebab was the favored instrument north of the Saudi State. This single-stringed instrument is crafted from tanned gazelle or wolf hide, which is moistened and stretched over a wooden frame. Known as the "music of the desert, the rebab is a staple at gatherings in northern Arabia, where poets recite their verses, whether in praise or as an expression of joy.
Art in the central part of the Saudi State
In the central part of the Saudi State, the drum was well-known and used both in warfare and in dances such as al-Ardah and al-Samri. There are two types of drums: the first is made from wood, covered with hide, and is large in size. Known as Takhmir, it was used for warfare and played with a fist. The second type is smaller and used at celebrations, such as weddings, and is referred to as Tathlith.
Art in the eastern part of the Saudi State
The coastal inhabitants, including sailors, fishermen, and pearl divers in the east of the Saudi State, relied on sea songs that showcased the vocal abilities of the lead singer among them. They would sing these songs while raising and lowering the sails. Some of them used the Simsimiyya, playing it on Sanabeek (sailboats) as an accompaniment during their work at sea.
As for the desert inhabitants, they used their melodious voices in art, especially while riding their camels, in a style known as al-Hijini.
Related quizzes
Related articles
