Golden Inlaid Guns Celebrate UAE Heritage

Golden Inlaid Guns in Abu Dhabi: Tradition, Art, and Heritage Unite

The respect for the history, culture, and leadership of the United Arab Emirates took a special form at this year’s Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), where an extraordinary collection of firearms was showcased. Named 'Trinity', the set consists of three gold-inlaid, uniquely engraved, German-made Mauser 98 rifles, which can be valued up to 4 million dirhams.

This exclusive firearm set captured the interest not only of weapon enthusiasts and collectors but also holds deep emotional and historical significance for the residents of the Emirates. The decoration of the three rifles serves as a visual tribute to the founders and heritage of the UAE, in particular the iconic Rabdan horse, which has become a symbol of Emirati history and culture.

Artistic Execution and Technical Perfection

The basis of the rifles is the legendary Mauser 98 platform, known worldwide for its reliability and precision. Although these guns are fully functional and suitable for hunting, the gold inlays, engravings, and premium materials elevate them to true collector's items.

The stocks of the firearms are crafted from luxury-quality walnut, while the barrels were plasma-treated to achieve a deep blue hue. The classic .308 caliber ensures that the rifle represents the highest standard of functionality as well. The gold decorations serve not only aesthetic purposes but are also carriers of cultural heritage: each rifle contains 12 grams of pure 24-carat gold.

The grips have 'Abu Dhabi' engraved in gold, emphasizing the capital's central cultural and political role. The beautifully crafted pieces were exhibited in storage boxes lined with black velvet and closed with a gold clasp, which shone under the exhibition spotlights.

Three Rifles – Three Stories

Each rifle in the 'Trinity' collection tells its own story:

The first rifle depicts Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, also known as Zayed the First, who passionately loved Arabian horses, especially his famous steed, Rabdan.

The second rifle portrays Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, sitting on one of Rabdan's descendants.

The third weapon features a portrait of the Rabdan horse itself, symbolizing the traditions, strength, and authenticity of the Emirates.

These depictions are deeply embedded in the collective memory of the Emirates. The three rifles are not only art pieces but a visual narrative bridgeing the past, present, and future.

International Collaboration and Craftsmanship

The weapons were crafted by the German Reimer Johannsen gunsmith workshop upon the order of Rakna, an Emirati firearms manufacturing company. The concept and historical motifs originate from the Emirati side, while the execution is a result of international cooperation: the firearms were made in Germany, the bluing also occurred there, the gold work was done by German masters, and the engraving took place in the Czech Republic.

This project is not only an example of technical perfection but also an exquisite meeting of various cultures and craftsmanship traditions. The masterpieces born from international collaboration deservedly garnered recognition among ADIHEX visitors.

Target Audience and Cultural Message

The collection is available not as separate pieces but only as a single set. Its price ranges between 3 and 4 million dirhams, clearly delineating the target audience—expectedly the royal families of the UAE or prominent collectors. These rifles are not just status symbols but carry a deeper message: respect for national heritage, leadership virtues, and equestrian traditions.

Visitors admired the detailed craftsmanship, gold inlays, polished walnut, and gold-plated triggers, with warning signs indicating not to touch the rifles. Collectors, historical firearm enthusiasts, and those who respect Arabian traditions were all deeply impressed by the displayed items.

Balance of Heritage and Modernity

The United Arab Emirates often serves as an example of how traditions can be reinterpreted using the tools of the modern age. The 'Trinity' collection embodies precisely this. Through the combination of a classic firearm platform, luxury materials, cultural motifs, and contemporary craftsmanship, these rifles can be not only relics of the past but valuable assets for the future.

The collection's message goes beyond luxury. It also serves as a reminder: to respect the roots, the leadership heritage, and common cultural values. This kind of artistic tribute remains relevant today, especially in a rapidly developing society like the UAE.

The 'Trinity' rifle collection thus simultaneously reveals the history of Abu Dhabi, reflects national identity, and represents the high level of craftsmanship that rightfully finds a place in the world's most significant cultural events.

(Source of the article: Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) exhibition announcement.)