This artwork portrays the crafting of the celebrated wooden minbar commissioned by Nur ad-Din Zangi for Masjid al Aqsa, a work of devotion created long before Jerusalem was under Muslim rule. The scene shows a craftsman shaping the timber of the minbar within the fortified walls of Syria. Behind him, the domes of Jerusalem appear in the distance, not as a literal view but as a symbolic reminder of Nur ad-Din’s lifelong mission. The artwork reflects a moment in which faith, craftsmanship and political vision came together in the creation of an object meant for a sacred place still out of reach.
Historically, Nur ad-Din ordered the construction of this minbar in the mid twelfth century as a declaration of intention. Jerusalem had fallen to the Crusaders decades earlier, yet Nur ad-Din believed firmly that the city would one day be restored to Muslim care. The minbar was carved with extraordinary precision, built from interlocking pieces of wood without nails and adorned with geometric patterns and Quranic inscriptions. It remained in Aleppo for years, awaiting the moment it could be placed in al Aqsa. Nur ad-Din died before he could see his vision fulfilled, but his successor Salahuddin carried the minbar to Jerusalem after its liberation in 1187, installing it as a tribute to the ruler whose dream had guided the cause.
The minbar became one of the most cherished symbols of Muslim devotion to Jerusalem. For centuries it stood inside Masjid al Aqsa as a reminder of the patience, faith and unity required to reclaim a holy trust. Its journey from workshop to sanctuary embodied the idea that hope must be prepared before victory arrives. The artwork captures this spirit by showing the minbar still in the hands of its maker, conveying that the path to Jerusalem was a labour of belief as much as it was a military campaign.
Displayed in a contemporary setting, this piece becomes a reflection on the power of intention and the legacy of leadership rooted in faith. It invites the viewer to consider how great achievements begin long before their fulfilment, shaped quietly by people who work, build and prepare for a future they may never see. The minbar of Nur ad-Din stands as one of the finest examples of such devotion, connecting the aspirations of the past to the responsibilities of the present.
Every artwork in this collection is available in four thoughtfully selected display formats, designed to complement a wide range of interiors while maintaining a consistent standard of quality and finish.
Our framed canvas prints offer a subtle, tactile texture that adds depth and presence to each piece, professionally stretched over FSC certified wooden bars for a clean, gallery-ready presentation. For a lighter and more flexible option, our museum-quality paper posters can be paired with magnetic wooden hangers crafted from smooth pine, allowing the artwork to be displayed or changed with ease while remaining securely held.
For a more traditional presentation, our premium wooden frames are made from responsibly sourced oak or ash, chosen for their natural grain and durability, and finished with shatterproof plexiglass for long-term protection. Those seeking a contemporary look can opt for our aluminium frames, combining slim black metal with heavyweight matte paper for a crisp, understated finish.
All prints are produced using high-quality, archival-grade inks on FSC certified papers. Each piece is made individually to order, helping minimise unnecessary waste while ensuring careful attention to quality and consistency. Your artwork arrives ready to hang or assemble, crafted to be enjoyed for years to come.
