The Moroccan Ambassador to Britain Meets a 16th-Century Moroccan Diplomat at the University of Birmingham

ALDAR/

During a special visit to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts at the University of Birmingham, the Moroccan Ambassador to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Hakim Hajoui, encountered a shadow from the distant past as he stood before the renowned portrait of Abd el-Ouahed ben Messaoud ben Mohammed Anoun.

This portrait is considered the earliest known depiction of a Muslim in Britain and dates back to the year 1600 when Abd el-Ouahed led a Moroccan diplomatic mission to the court of Queen Elizabeth I. The mission aimed to strengthen trade and diplomatic relations between Morocco and Britain. It is also believed that his visit may have inspired the character of Othello in William Shakespeare’s works.

Commenting on this historic moment, Ambassador Hajoui stated:
“This portrait is a powerful symbol of the deep historical ties between Morocco and the United Kingdom, which span over eight centuries. Seeing it here at the Barber Institute of the University of Birmingham highlights the vital role that academic and cultural institutions play in preserving and honoring our shared history.”

It is worth noting that the portrait has been on display at the Barber Institute since last June and will remain accessible to visitors until the exhibition closes for maintenance on January 27.

This occasion reflects the ongoing diplomatic and cultural bonds between Morocco and the United Kingdom and underscores the significance of artistic and historical artifacts in shedding light on the shared heritage of nations.