This data sheet, preferably filled in electronically59, is aimed at extensive data-gathering within the framework of the assessments on national capacities for implementing the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (please refer to the background document to guide national assessments60). It will provide comprehensive information on any programmes, projects and activities related to intangible cultural heritage, in particular to its safeguarding, as referred to in the assessment guidelines.
Please provide the full name in its original language as well as in French and/or English.
Heritage Company for Embroidery
شركة التراث للتطريز
2. Competent body involved
This section should provide the name and contact information of the competent body (agency, museum, institution, manager, etc.) with responsibility for the programme, project or activity.
Name of the competent body: Heritage Company for Embroidery
Name of a contact person: Mrs. Widad Kawar
Postal address: P.O. Box 222 Amman, 11118
Country: Jordan
Website: www.arabheritage.org
Tel: +962-6-5677644
Fax: +962-6-5698907
E-mail: kamelak@nets.com.jo
3. Geographical scope
This section should identify the locations in which the programme, project or activity is carried out. Please indicate whether it is primarily local, national, sub-regional or international in scope and specify the location (name of city(es), district(s), country(ies)).
local
X national
sub-regional
international
Please specify: Jordan
4. Domain(s) represented by the programme, project or activity
Identify the domain(s) of intangible cultural heritage included within the programme, project or activity, which might include one or more of the domains identified in Article 2.2 of the Convention.
Identify clearly the community(ies), group(s) or, if applicable, individuals concerned with the programme, project or activity.
Private collector (Mrs. Widad Kawar)
6. Description of the programme, project or activity
Please provide a succinct description of the programme, project or activity and its main elements. If it is completed or in-progress, please describe what actually happened or is underway. If it is only planned, describe what is intended and can reasonably be expected to happen within its scope.
More specifically, you may wish to :
describe the situation that led to the creation of the programme, project or activity—what safeguarding needs were identified and by whom, and how priorities and objectives were identified and established;
describe the specific safeguarding measures the programme, project or activity includes and why they were selected. You may also wish to underline any innovative methods or modalities involved, if any;
in case of commercial/touristic activities related to intangible cultural heritage, address to what extent it contributes to its safeguarding, being aware that commercial and/or touristic activities may also, under specific circumstances, threaten the viability of intangible cultural heritage.
If already completed, please show how the programme, project or activity has demonstrated effectiveness in contributing to the viability of the intangible cultural heritage concerned. If it is still underway or planned, show how it can reasonably be expected to contribute substantially to the viability of the intangible cultural heritage concerned. Please explain how the results of the programme, project or activity have been or will be assessed.
The Wedad Kawar private collection is the most complete of Palestinian, Jordanian and other Arab costumes from the 19th and 20th centuries. Over a period of 50 years the collection has grown to contain more than 2000 costumes, weavings, utensils, furnishings, jewelry and amulets. It also includes a collection of old books and photographs. The Heritage Company for Embroidery strives to house Mrs. Wedad Kawar’s private collection in a museum. The museum will allow public access to the collection and preserve and promote the rich art and cultural heritage of the region. The Kawar family (owners of the company) purchased and renovated a 550 m² building which will serve as the museum facility. This building is located in the heart of Amman.
Wedad Kawar started collecting out of a passion to preserve a disappearing rich textile and embroidery heritage. For her, this was a personal endeavour towards preserving a major aspect of Arab history for the present and future generations.
This private collection is currently housed in the family home; therefore, access to the wider public has been limited and the collection has not received any professional care in textile preservation so far.
USAID/JTDII is currently funding the development of this museum through supporting exhibition design, facility and operations planning by a foreign design firm; and participating in fundraising activities to secure funds for the implementation of the construction work based on the conceptual and detailed designs. The museum will become a pioneer project in Jordan in terms of content and in terms of providing the visitors with a unique museum experience based on international standards and practices.
Most important, the museum will capture the intangible cultural heritage of Jordan, Palestine, and other Arab countries, institutionalize a private collection and allow public access to it, provide archival material and resources on Arab heritage, provide a living example of public engagement in preserving Arab heritage, celebrate women’s roles in society, preserve the collection from deterioration, and provide a unique visitor experience.
7. Community participation and consent
Please describe how the community, group or, if applicable, individuals concerned have participated (or will participate) in the programme, project or activity at all stages of planning and implementation and how they have consented to it.
This private collection is currently housed in the family home; therefore, access to the wider public has been limited and the collection has not received any professional care in textile preservation so far.
