Paris, November 6, 2024 – The Europe Today: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, accompanied by French President Emmanuel Macron, attended the opening of the ‘Kazakhstan: Treasures of the Great Steppe’ exhibition at the renowned Guimet National Museum of Asian Arts in Paris. The exhibit, which highlights significant artifacts from Kazakh history, was organized to showcase the cultural heritage and historical milestones of Kazakhstan, News Hub Consultants reports.
Among the featured artifacts is the ‘Tobol Thinker’ sculpture, which represents the earliest Neolithic Botai culture, known as the first people to domesticate horses. Other prominent items include the Golden Man’s decorations from the era of the Saka and Sarmatians, marking the initial formation of nomadic unions and proto-states. Stone sculptures illustrate the history of medieval Kazakhstan during the Turkic Kaganate period, while artifacts such as lamps from the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi reflect the spread of Islam across the Kazakh steppe. The exhibit also includes the chapan (traditional robe) of Kazybek bi, symbolizing the foundation of the Kazakh Khanate and the emergence of modern Kazakhstan.
Founded in 1889, the Guimet National Museum holds one of the world’s largest collections of Asian art, making it a fitting venue for this significant cultural display.
The visit to the exhibition followed formal discussions between President Tokayev and President Macron, held earlier in an extended format as part of Tokayev’s official state visit to France on November 4. President Tokayev was ceremonially welcomed by President Macron, reinforcing the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between Kazakhstan and France.
